Absorbent article with elasticized waist region

ABSTRACT

A disposable article includes a topsheet, a backsheet, and an absorbent core disposed between the topsheet and backsheet; and an elasticized waist gasketing element. The elasticized waist gasketing element has a lateral outboard edge and a longitudinal array of elastic members. The longitudinal array includes a primary waist elastic member disposed inboard of the waist edge by a minimum longitudinal distance A, a secondary waist elastic member disposed inboard of the primary waist elastic member by a minimum longitudinal distance B. The waist gasketing element comprises a Force Ratio of at least about 1.1.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No.16/528,753, filed on Aug. 1, 2019, which is a continuation of U.S.patent application Ser. No. 15,186,866, filed on Jun. 20, 2016, nowissued as U.S. Pat. No. 10,406,040, on Sep. 10, 2019, which claims thebenefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/186,746, filed on Jun.30, 2015, the entireties of which are all incorporated by referenceherein.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

This invention relates to absorbent articles (e.g., diapers, adultincontinence articles, feminine hygiene pads) having improved structuraldesign of elasticized regions and/or the chassis to provide enhancedcomfort and/or ease of use while maintaining fit.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

It has long been known that absorbent articles such as conventionalabsorbent articles (e.g., diapers, adult incontinence articles, femininehygiene pads) offer the benefit of receiving and containing urine and/orother bodily exudates (e.g., feces, menses, mixture of feces and urine,mixture of menses and urine, etc.). To effectively contain bodilyexudates, the article should provide a snug fit around the waist andlegs of a wearer.

Manufacturers often use the shape of an article and/or elasticized areaswithin the article to help achieve a snug fit. However, to date,manufacturers have not designed a shape that provides a sufficientlywide front waist region and permits the optimal utilization of side earpanels, while maintaining fit and garment-like appearance. Moreover, thetight contact provided by elastics can lead to skin irritation anddiscomfort. Further, the contraction of elastics may preclude an articlefrom lying flat during application and may create defects such aswrinkles or gaps in areas of the article.

Accordingly, there is a need to provide an absorbent article thatbalances fit and/or containment of exudates with comfort and/or ease ofapplication. Further, there is a continued need to provide signals tothe consumer and/or wearer that the absorbent article will perform asdesired.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In an embodiment, a disposable absorbent article includes a first waistregion having a first waist edge, a second waist region having a secondwaist edge, a crotch region disposed between the first and second waistregions; and a first longitudinal edge and a second longitudinal edge.The article further includes a chassis comprising a topsheet, abacksheet, and an absorbent core disposed between the topsheet andbacksheet. An elasticized waist gasketing element is joined to thechassis in one of the first or the second waist regions. The elasticizedwaist gasketing element comprises a lateral outboard edge and alongitudinal array of elastic members. The longitudinal array of elasticmembers has a primary waist elastic member disposed inboard of therespective first or second waist edge by a minimum longitudinal distanceA, and a secondary waist elastic member disposed inboard of the primarywaist elastic member by a minimum longitudinal distance B. The waistgasketing element comprises a Force Ratio of at least about 1.1.

In another embodiment, a disposable absorbent article for wearing aboutthe lower torso of a wearer includes a first waist region having a firstwaist edge, a second waist region having a second waist edge, a crotchregion disposed between the first and second waist regions; and a firstlongitudinal edge and a second longitudinal edge. The article alsoincludes a chassis comprising a topsheet, a backsheet, and an absorbentcore disposed between the topsheet and backsheet; and an elasticizedwaist gasketing element joined to the chassis in the second waistregion. The elasticized waist gasketing element includes waist gasketingelement pocket and a longitudinal array of elastic members. Thelongitudinal array has a first outboard pocket elastic member disposedinboard of the second waist edge and having an outboard pocketcontraction force. The array further includes a second inboard pocketelastic member disposed inboard of the first outboard pocket waistelastic member, wherein the second inboard pocket waist elastic memberhas an inboard pocket contraction force. The inboard pocket contractionforce is greater than the outboard contraction force.

In still another embodiment, a disposable absorbent article for wearingabout the lower torso of a wearer includes a first waist region having afirst waist edge, a second waist region having a second waist edge, acrotch region disposed between the first and second waist regions; and afirst longitudinal edge and a second longitudinal edge. The article alsoincludes a chassis having a topsheet, a backsheet, and an absorbent coredisposed between the topsheet and backsheet. The article furtherincludes a bending line disposed in one of the first or the second waistregions; and an elasticized waist gasketing element joined to thechassis in the one of the first or the second waist regions andoverlaying the bending line. The elasticized waist gasketing element hasa primary outboard set of elastic members disposed outboard of thebending line and having an aggregate primary moment of force, ΣMp, and asecondary inboard set of elastic members disposed inboard of the bendingline and having an aggregate secondary moment of force, ΣMs. Theaggregate secondary moment of force, ΣMs, is greater than the aggregateprimary moment of force, ΣMp, in the extended state.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a schematic plan view of an exemplary embodiment of anabsorbent article as detailed herein. The absorbent article is shown ina flat, uncontracted state.

FIG. 1A is a schematic perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of anabsorbent article as detailed herein.

FIG. 2 is a schematic plan view of a chassis in accordance with oneembodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 3A is a schematic plan view of a backsheet in accordance with anembodiment of the present invention.

FIGS. 3B-3C are schematic cross-sectional views of prior art backsheetand ear assemblies.

FIG. 3D is a schematic cross-section view of an exemplary embodiment ofa backsheet and ear assembly as detailed herein.

FIG. 3E is a schematic cross-sectional view of an exemplary embodimentof the backsheet of FIG. 3A, the cross-section taken along the line3E-3E.

FIGS. 4A-4B are schematic plan views of exemplary embodiments ofelasticized components as detailed herein. The elasticized componentsare shown in a flat, uncontracted state.

FIG. 4C is a schematic cross-sectional view of an exemplary absorbentarticle having exemplary elasticized leg cuffs as detailed herein.

FIGS. 4D-4E are schematic plan views of exemplary embodiments ofelasticized components as detailed herein. The elasticized componentsare shown in a flat, uncontracted state.

FIGS. 5A-5B are schematic plan views of exemplary embodiments ofelasticized components as detailed herein. The elasticized componentsare shown in a flat, uncontracted state.

FIG. 5C is a partial, schematic plan view of an exemplary embodiment ofan absorbent article shown in its flat, uncontracted state. Theelasticized component is shown in a flat, uncontracted state.

FIG. 5D is a schematic plan view of an exemplary embodiment of anelasticized component as detailed herein. The elasticized component isshown in a flat, uncontracted state.

FIG. 6 is a schematic cross-sectional view of an exemplary embodiment ofone of the leg gasketing systems of FIG. 1 , taken along the lateralcenterline. The leg gasketing system is shown in a flat, uncontractedstate.

FIG. 7 is a schematic cross-sectional view of an exemplary embodiment ofthe leg gasketing systems and topsheet of FIG. 1 , the cross sectiontaken along the lateral centerline. The leg gasketing systems are shownin a flat, uncontracted state.

FIG. 8 is a schematic cross sectional view of an exemplary embodiment ofthe absorbent article of FIG. 1 with an opacity strengthening patch, thecross section taken along the line A-A.

FIG. 9 is a partial, schematic plan view of an exemplary embodiment ofan absorbent article having a leg gasketing system as detailed herein.The leg gasketing system is shown in a flat, uncontracted state.

FIG. 10 is a schematic cross-sectional view of an exemplary embodimentof one of the leg gasketing systems of FIG. 1 , taken along the lateralcenterline. The leg gasketing system is shown in a flat, uncontractedstate.

FIG. 11 is a schematic plan view of an exemplary embodiment of anabsorbent article as detailed herein. The article is shown in a flat,uncontracted state.

FIG. 12 is a schematic plan view of an exemplary embodiment of a waistgasketing element as detailed herein. The waist gasketing element isshown in a flat, uncontracted state.

FIGS. 13A-13D are schematic plan views of exemplary embodiments of waistgasketing elements as detailed herein. The waist gasketing elements areshown in a flat, uncontracted state.

FIGS. 14A-14B are schematic plan views of exemplary embodiments of waistgasketing elements as detailed herein. The waist gasketing elements areshown in a flat, uncontracted state.

FIG. 15 is a schematic perspective view of a package in accordance withone embodiment of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION Definitions

“Disposable,” in reference to absorbent articles, means that theabsorbent articles are generally not intended to be laundered orotherwise restored or reused as absorbent articles (i.e., they areintended to be discarded after a single use and, preferably, to berecycled, composted or otherwise discarded in an environmentallycompatible manner).

“Absorbent article” refers to devices which absorb and contain bodyexudates and, more specifically, refers to devices which are placedagainst or in proximity to the body of the wearer to absorb and containthe various exudates discharged from the body. Exemplary absorbentarticles include diapers, training pants, pull-on pant-type diapers(i.e., a diaper having a pre-formed waist opening and leg openings suchas illustrated in U.S. Pat. No. 6,120,487), refastenable diapers orpant-type diapers, incontinence briefs and undergarments, diaper holdersand liners, feminine hygiene garments such as panty liners, absorbentinserts, and the like.

“Proximal” and “Distal” refer respectively to the location of an elementrelatively near to or far from the longitudinal or lateral centerline ofa structure (e.g., the proximal edge of a longitudinally extendingelement is located nearer to the longitudinal centerline than the distaledge of the same element is located relative to the same longitudinalcenterline).

“Body-facing” and “garment-facing” refer respectively to the relativelocation of an element or a surface of an element or group of elements.“Body-facing” implies the element or surface is nearer to the wearerduring wear than some other element or surface. “Garment-facing” impliesthe element or surface is more remote from the wearer during wear thansome other element or surface (i.e., element or surface is proximate tothe wearer's garments that may be worn over the disposable absorbentarticle).

“Longitudinal” refers to a direction running substantially perpendicularfrom a waist edge to an opposing waist edge of the article and generallyparallel to the maximum linear dimension of the article. Directionswithin 45 degrees of the longitudinal direction are considered to be“longitudinal.” Longitudinal distances are measured between pointsdisposed along the same longitudinal line.

“Lateral” refers to a direction running from a longitudinal edge to anopposing longitudinal edge of the article and generally at a right angleto the longitudinal direction. Directions within 45 degrees of thelateral direction are considered to be “lateral.” Lateral distances aremeasured between points disposed along the same lateral line.

“Disposed” refers to an element being located in a particular place orposition.

“Joined” refers to configurations whereby an element is directly securedto another element by affixing the element directly to the other elementand to configurations whereby an element is indirectly secured toanother element by affixing the element to intermediate member(s) whichin turn are affixed to the other element.

“Film” refers to a sheet-like material wherein the length and width ofthe material far exceed the thickness of the material. Typically, filmshave a thickness of about 0.5 mm or less.

“Water-permeable” and “water-impermeable” refer to the penetrability ofmaterials in the context of the intended usage of disposable absorbentarticles. Specifically, the term “water-permeable” refers to a layer ora layered structure having pores, openings, and/or interconnected voidspaces that permit liquid water, urine, or synthetic urine to passthrough its thickness in the absence of a forcing pressure. Conversely,the term “water-impermeable” refers to a layer or a layered structurethrough the thickness of which liquid water, urine, or synthetic urinecannot pass in the absence of a forcing pressure (aside from naturalforces such as gravity). A layer or a layered structure that iswater-impermeable according to this definition may be permeable to watervapor, i.e., may be “vapor-permeable.”

“Elongatable,” “extensible,” or “stretchable” are used interchangeablyand refer to a material that, upon application of a biasing force, canstretch to an elongated length of at least about 110% of its relaxed,original length (i.e. can stretch to 10 percent more than its originallength), without rupture or breakage, and upon release of the appliedforce, shows little recovery, less than about 20% of its elongationwithout complete rupture or breakage as measured by EDANA method20.2-89. In the event such an elongatable material recovers at least 40%of its elongation upon release of the applied force, the elongatablematerial will be considered to be “elastic” or “elastomeric.” Forexample, an elastic material that has an initial length of 100 mm canextend at least to 150 mm, and upon removal of the force retracts to alength of at least 130 mm (i.e., exhibiting a 40% recovery). In theevent the material recovers less than 40% of its elongation upon releaseof the applied force, the elongatable material will be considered to be“substantially non-elastic” or “substantially non-elastomeric”. Forexample, an elongatable material that has an initial length of 100 mmcan extend at least to 150 mm, and upon removal of the force retracts toa length of at least 145 mm (i.e., exhibiting a 10% recovery).Elastomeric materials may include elastomeric films (including but notlimited to films derived from rubber and/or other polymeric materials),polyurethane films, elastomeric foams, scrims, elastic nonwovens,synthetic fibers such as LYCRA® and other sheet-like structures. Anelastic member comprises elastomeric material.

“Pant” refers to disposable absorbent articles having a pre-formed waistand leg openings. A pant may be donned by inserting a wearer's legs intothe leg openings and sliding the pant into position about the wearer'slower torso. Pants are also commonly referred to as “closed diapers”,“prefastened diapers”, “pull-on diapers”, “training pants” and“diaper-pants.”

“Adjacent” as it refers to elastic members or sets of elastic membersherein means that there are no elastic members disposed between saidadjacent elastic members or between said adjacent sets of elasticmembers.

Overview

The present invention is directed to a disposable absorbent article withfeatures that improve comfort, fit, ease of use and/or appearance. Inembodiments, the chassis may comprise a maximum width in the front waistregion, such that the front waist region is wider than the remainingportions of the article. In further embodiments, the article comprisesan elasticized region having two elastic members proximate to oneanother and comprising different properties, such as different strainlevels, different attachment patterns, and/or different contractionregion lengths and/or attachment starting points and/or ending pointspositioned on different axes. In a further embodiment, the articlecomprises an array of elastic members in a waist region, wherein theelastic members are selected such that their relative contractive forcesand/or relative moments of force compensate for changes in stiffnessand/or bendability of surrounding materials in the article.

Absorbent Article

FIG. 1 is a plan view of an exemplary, non-limiting embodiment of anabsorbent article 20 of the present invention in a flat, uncontractedstate. The body-facing surface 115 of the absorbent article 20 is facingthe viewer. The absorbent article 20 includes a longitudinal centerline100 and a lateral centerline 110. The absorbent article 20 comprises achassis 22. The absorbent article 20 and chassis 22 are shown to have afirst waist region 36, a second waist region 38 opposed to the firstwaist region 36, and a crotch region 37 located between the first waistregion 36 and the second waist region 38. The waist regions 36 and 38generally comprise those portions of the absorbent article 20 which,when worn, encircle the waist of the wearer. The waist regions 36 and 38may include elastic members 210 _(w) such that they gather about thewaist of the wearer to provide improved fit and containment. The crotchregion 37 is the portion of the absorbent article 20 which, when theabsorbent article 20 is worn, is generally positioned between the legsof the wearer.

The chassis 22 may comprise a liquid permeable topsheet 24, a backsheet26, and an absorbent core 28 between the topsheet 24 and the backsheet26. In embodiments that include one or more opacity strengtheningpatches 80, the chassis 22 also comprises the opacity strengtheningpatch(s) 80. The absorbent core 28 may have a body-facing surface and agarment-facing surface. The backsheet 26 may have a body-facing side 26a and a garment-facing side 26 b. The topsheet 24 may be joined to thecore 28 and/or the backsheet 26. The backsheet 26 may be joined to thecore 28 and/or the topsheet 24. It should be recognized that otherstructures, elements, or substrates may be positioned between the core28 and the topsheet 24 and/or backsheet 26. In some embodiments, anacquisition-distribution system is disposed between the topsheet 26 andthe absorbent core 28.

In certain embodiments, the chassis 22 comprises the main structure ofthe absorbent article 20 with other features added to form the compositeabsorbent article structure. While the topsheet 24, the backsheet 26,and the absorbent core 28 may be assembled in a variety of well-knownconfigurations, absorbent article configurations are described generallyin U.S. Pat. Nos. 3,860,003; 5,151,092; 5,221,274; 5,554,145; 5,569,234;5,580,411; and 6,004,306.

Topsheet

The topsheet 24 is generally a portion of the absorbent article 20 thatmay be positioned at least in partial contact or close proximity to awearer. Suitable topsheets 24 may be manufactured from a wide range ofmaterials, such as porous foams; reticulated foams; apertured plasticfilms; or woven or nonwoven webs of natural fibers (e.g., wood or cottonfibers), synthetic fibers (e.g., polyester or polypropylene fibers), ora combination of natural and synthetic fibers. The topsheet 24 isgenerally supple, soft feeling, and non-irritating to a wearer's skin.Generally, at least a portion of the topsheet 24 is liquid pervious,permitting liquid to readily penetrate through the thickness of thetopsheet 24. One topsheet 24 useful herein is available from BBAFiberweb, Brentwood, TN as supplier code 055SLPV09U. The topsheet 24 maybe apertured.

Any portion of the topsheet 24 may be coated with a lotion or skin carecomposition as is known in the art. Non-limiting examples of suitablelotions include those described in U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,607,760; 5,609,587;5,635,191; and 5,643,588. The specific examples are not limiting, as anylotion or skin care composition known in the art may be utilized. Thetopsheet 24 may be fully or partially elasticized or may beforeshortened so as to provide a void space between the topsheet 24 andthe core 28. Exemplary structures including elasticized or foreshortenedtopsheets are described in more detail in U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,892,536;4,990,147; 5,037,416; and 5,269,775.

Absorbent Core

The absorbent core 28 may comprise a wide variety of liquid-absorbentmaterials commonly used in disposable diapers and other absorbentarticles. Examples of suitable absorbent materials include comminutedwood pulp, which is generally referred to as air felt creped cellulosewadding; melt blown polymers, including co-form; chemically stiffened,modified or cross-linked cellulosic fibers; tissue, including tissuewraps and tissue laminates; absorbent foams; absorbent sponges;superabsorbent polymers; absorbent gelling materials; or any other knownabsorbent material or combinations of materials. In one embodiment, atleast a portion of the absorbent core is substantially cellulose freeand contains less than 10% by weight cellulosic fibers, less than 5%cellulosic fibers, less than 1% cellulosic fibers, no more than animmaterial amount of cellulosic fibers or no cellulosic fibers. Itshould be understood that an immaterial amount of cellulosic materialdoes not materially affect at least one of the thinness, flexibility,and absorbency of the portion of the absorbent core that issubstantially cellulose free. Among other benefits, it is believed thatwhen at least a portion of the absorbent core is substantially cellulosefree, this portion of the absorbent core is significantly thinner andmore flexible than a similar absorbent core that includes more than 10%by weight of cellulosic fibers. The amount of absorbent material, suchas absorbent particulate polymer material present in the absorbent coremay vary, but in certain embodiments, is present in the absorbent corein an amount greater than about 80% by weight of the absorbent core, orgreater than about 85% by weight of the absorbent core, or greater thanabout 90% by weight of the absorbent core, or greater than about 95% byweight of the core. In some embodiments, the absorbent core may compriseone or more channels, wherein said channels are substantially free ofabsorbent particulate polymer material. The channels may extendlongitudinally or laterally. The absorbent core may further comprise twoor more channels. In one nonlimiting example, two channels aresymmetrically disposed about the longitudinal axis.

Exemplary absorbent structures for use as the absorbent core 28 aredescribed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,610,678; 4,673,402; 4,834,735; 4,888,231;5,137,537; 5,147,345; 5,342,338; 5,260,345; 5,387,207; 5,397,316; and5,625,222.

Backsheet

The backsheet 26 is generally positioned such that it may be at least aportion of the garment-facing surface 120 of the absorbent article 20.Backsheet 26 may be designed to prevent the exudates absorbed by andcontained within the absorbent article 20 from soiling articles that maycontact the absorbent article 20, such as bed sheets and undergarments.In certain embodiments, the backsheet 26 is substantiallywater-impermeable. Suitable backsheet 26 materials include films such asthose manufactured by Tredegar Industries Inc. of Terre Haute, IN andsold under the trade names X15306, X10962, and X10964. Other suitablebacksheet 26 materials may include breathable materials that permitvapors to escape from the absorbent article 20 while still preventingexudates from passing through the backsheet 26. Exemplary breathablematerials may include materials such as woven webs, nonwoven webs,composite materials such as film-coated nonwoven webs, and microporousfilms such as manufactured by Mitsui Toatsu Co., of Japan under thedesignation ESPOIR NO and by EXXON Chemical Co., of Bay City, TX, underthe designation EXXAIRE. Suitable breathable composite materialscomprising polymer blends are available from Clopay Corporation,Cincinnati, OH under the name HYTREL blend P18-3097. Such breathablecomposite materials are described in greater detail in PCT ApplicationNo. WO 95/16746 and U.S. Pat. No. 5,865,823. Other breathable backsheetsincluding nonwoven webs and apertured formed films are described in U.S.Pat. No. 5,571,096. An exemplary, suitable backsheet is disclosed inU.S. Pat. No. 6,107,537. Other suitable materials and/or manufacturingtechniques may be used to provide a suitable backsheet 26 including, butnot limited to, surface treatments, particular film selections andprocessing, particular filament selections and processing, etc.

Backsheet 26 may also consist of more than one layer. The backsheet 26may comprise an outer cover and an inner layer. The outer cover may bemade of a soft, non-woven material. The inner layer may be made of asubstantially liquid-impermeable film, such as a polymeric film. Theouter cover and an inner layer may be joined together by adhesive or anyother suitable material or method. A particularly suitable outer coveris available from Corovin GmbH, Peine, Germany as supplier code A18AH0,and a particularly suitable inner layer is available from RKW GronauGmbH, Gronau, Germany as supplier code PGBR4WPR. While a variety ofbacksheet configurations are contemplated herein, it would be obvious tothose skilled in the art that various other changes and modificationscan be made without departing from the spirit and scope of theinvention.

Ears/Fasteners

The absorbent article 20 may include front ears 40 and/or back ears 42.The ears 40, 42 may be extensible, inextensible, elastic, or inelastic.The ears 40, 42 may be formed from nonwoven webs, woven webs, knittedfabrics, polymeric and elastomeric films, apertured films, sponges,foams, scrims, and combinations and laminates thereof. In someembodiments, the ear 40, 42 may include elastomers (e.g., elasticstrands, LYCRA® fibers), such that the ear is stretchable. In certainembodiments, the ears 40, 42 may be formed of a stretch laminate such asa nonwoven/elastomeric material laminate or a nonwoven/elastomericmaterial/nonwoven laminate, which also results in the ear beingstretchable. Stretch laminates may be formed by any method known in theart. For example, the ears 40, 42 may be formed as a zero strain stretchlaminate, which includes at least a layer of non-woven material and anelastomeric element. The elastomeric element is attached to the layer ofnon-woven material while in a relaxed or substantially relaxed state,and the resulting laminate is made stretchable (or more stretchable overa further range) by subjecting the laminate to an activation processwhich elongates the nonwoven layer permanently, but the elastomericelement temporarily. The nonwoven layer may be integral with at least aportion of the chassis 22, in which case the elastomeric element may beattached to the nonwoven layer and the non-woven/elastomeric elementlaminate is subsequently activated. Alternatively, the nonwoven layermay be a separate component, in which case the elastomeric element isattached to the nonwoven layer to form the laminate, which is thencoupled to the main portion. If one or more layers of the ear 40, 42 areprovided separately, the laminate may be activated either before orafter attachment to the main portion. Zero strain activation processesare further disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,167,897 and 5,156,793. Asuitable elastic ear may be an activated laminate comprising anelastomeric film (such as is available from Tredegar Corp, Richmond, VA,as supplier code X25007) disposed between two nonwoven layers (such asis available from BBA Fiberweb, Brentwood, TN as supplier code FPN332).

An ear 40, 42 may be highly extensible wherein the ear 40, 42 is capableof extending up to 150%. It is believed that highly extensible ears 40,42 allow an absorbent article 20 to expand to comfortably fit a range ofwearers who vary in shape and/or weight. Suitable highly extensible ears40, 42 are described in U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,116,892, 4,834,741, 5,143,679;5,156,793; 5,167,897; and 5,422,172; and 5,518,801; PCT App. No. WO2005/110731; and U.S. App. Nos. US 2004/0181200 and US 2004/0193133.

In an embodiment, the ears 40, 42 may be discrete. A discrete ear isformed as separate element which is joined to the chassis 22.

The absorbent article 20 may also include a fastening system 44. Whenfastened, the fastening system 44 interconnects the first waist region36 and the rear waist region 38 resulting in a waist circumference thatmay encircle the wearer during wear of the absorbent article 20. Thefastening system 44 may comprise a fastener 46 such as tape tabs, hookand loop fastening components, interlocking fasteners such as tabs &slots, buckles, buttons, snaps, and/or hermaphroditic fasteningcomponents, although any other known fastening means are generallyacceptable. Some exemplary surface fastening systems are disclosed inU.S. Pat. Nos. 3,848,594; 4,662,875; 4,846,815; 4,894,060; 4,946,527;5,151,092; and 5,221,274. An exemplary interlocking fastening system isdisclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 6,432,098. The fastening system 44 may alsoprovide a means for holding the article in a disposal configuration asdisclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 4,963,140. The fastening system 44 may alsoinclude primary and secondary fastening systems, as disclosed in U.S.Pat. No. 4,699,622. The fastening system 44 may be constructed to reduceshifting of overlapped portions or to improve fit as disclosed in U.S.Pat. Nos. 5,242,436; 5,499,978; 5,507,736; and 5,591,152. In someembodiments, the fastening system 44 and/or the fastener 46 is foldable.

The fastening system 44 may be joined to any suitable portion of thearticle 20 by any suitable means. In some embodiments, the fasteningsystem is joined to the ear 40, 42. In one nonlimiting example, thefastening system 44 and/or the fastener 46 is mechanically bonded to theear 40, 42 through one or more mechanical bonds. In one nonlimitingexample, the ear 40, 42 comprises a first fastener bond 400 disposedinboard and a second fastener bond 402 disposed outboard as shown inFIG. 1 . The first and/or second fastener bond 400, 402 may bemechanical.

The article 20 may comprise a landing zone 47 disposed in the firstwaist region 36 (as shown in FIG. 1A). The fastener 46 may attach to thefirst waist region 36 in the landing zone 47, or the fastening system 44may be otherwise capable of joining the waist regions by connecting atthe landing zone 47. In one nonlimiting example, the landing zone 47 ispartially disposed on the longitudinal centerline 100. In anothernonlimiting example, the landing zone 47 is disposed about 2 mm or lessfrom the longitudinal centerline 100, or about 1 mm or less from thelongitudinal centerline 100. The landing zone may comprise fasteningcomponents (e.g., mechanical closure elements comprising hook and loopfastening materials, adhesive, or other known means).

Chassis Design

The outer periphery 30 of the chassis 22 is defined by longitudinaledges 12 and waist edges (first waist edge 13 in first waist region 36and second waist edge 14 in second waist region 38). The longitudinaledges 12 may be subdivided into a front longitudinal edge 12 a, which isthe portion of the longitudinal edge 12 in the first waist region 36,and a rear longitudinal edge 12 b, which is the portion of thelongitudinal edge 12 in the rear waist region 38. The chassis 22 mayhave opposing longitudinal edges 12 that are oriented generally parallelto the longitudinal centerline 100. However, for better fit,longitudinal edges 12 may be curved or angled to produce, for example,an “hourglass” shape article 21 when viewed in a plan view as shown inFIGS. 1-3A, for example. The chassis 22 may have opposing lateral edges13, 14 (i.e., the first waist edge 13 and second waist edge 14) that areoriented generally parallel to the lateral centerline 110.

In an embodiment depicted in FIG. 2 , the chassis periphery 30 comprisesa varying width, W_(v). (FIG. 2 is a schematic view of the chassis withthe garment-facing side 120 facing the viewer.) The varying width,W_(v), may comprise multiple zones having different widths between thelongitudinal edges 12. In one nonlimiting example, the chassis peripherycomprises a first maximum width zone 32 disposed in the first waistregion 36. The first maximum width zone 32 is a section in the firstwaist region 36 having a first maximum width, W₁, extending between thelongitudinal edges 12 in the first waist region 36. The first maximumwidth, W₁, is the largest width dimension in the chassis periphery 30.The first maximum width, W₁, may be from about 150 mm to about 400 mm,or from 200 mm to about 380 mm, or from about 250 mm to about 360 mm,reciting for each range every 10 mm interval therebetween. In a furthernonlimiting example, the chassis periphery 30 comprises a minimum width,W_(min), disposed in the crotch region 37. The minimum width, W_(min),is the smallest width dimension in the chassis periphery 30. The minimumwidth, W_(min), may be from about 90 mm to about 180 mm, from about 100mm to about 175 mm, or from about 140 mm to about 170 mm, reciting foreach range every 10 mm interval therebetween. The chassis periphery 30may further comprise a first maximum width to minimum width ratio,W₁:W_(min), of from about 1.4 to about 2.7, or from about 1.6 to about2.4, or from about 1.8 to about 2.2, reciting for each range every 0.1interval therebetween.

In another nonlimiting example, the chassis periphery 30 comprises asecond maximum width, W₂, disposed in the second waist region 38. Thesecond maximum width, W₂, is the maximum width between the longitudinaledges 12 in the second waist region 38. The second maximum width, W₂,may be less than the first maximum width, W₁. The chassis periphery 30may further comprise a first maximum width to second maximum widthratio, W₁:W₂ of from about 1.1 to about 1.7, reciting for said rangeevery 0.1 interval therebetween.

To date, manufacturers have made taped diaper chassis with symmetricfront and back waist regions or with back waist regions that have agreater maximum width than the maximum width of the front region.However, various benefits may be achieved by providing a wider firstwaist region 36, such as (i) the wide front may cover more skin aroundthe front and side waist regions, signaling comfort and proper fit; (ii)rough fastening elements may be prevented from directly contacting theskin, thereby reducing skin irritation and abrasion; and/or (iii) thefront waist region may be easier to find and grasp, reducing the timeand effort required to apply an absorbent article. Further, sufficientoverlap of the front waist region 36 and back waist region 38 around thewearer's waist can improve fit, reducing sagging and gapping about thewaist and legs. In addition, sufficient overlap of these regions 36, 38may increase the garment-like appearance of the article 20 during use.

In an embodiment, the width of a waist edge, W_(E), is less than thefirst maximum width, W₁. In one nonlimiting example, both waist edges,13, 14 comprise the same waist width, W_(E).

The backsheet 26 may comprise a material periphery 34 defined by theoutermost longitudinal and lateral edges of one or more layers of thebacksheet 26. In an embodiment, the backsheet material periphery 34 maybe coterminous with the chassis periphery 30 as illustrated in FIGS. 2and 3A. In one nonlimiting example, the backsheet 26 comprises the firstmaximum width, W₁, in the front waist region 36, the minimum width,W_(min), in the crotch region 37 and the second maximum width, W₂, inthe second waist region 38. The second maximum width, W₂, can be lessthan the first maximum width, W₁. It is desirable for the backsheetmaterial periphery 34 to define the chassis periphery 30 to prevent theappearance of loose material edges or seams and thereby create a higherquality impression.

In such embodiment, the chassis 22 may be shaped by providing thebacksheet 26 at a continuous first maximum width, W₁, and subsequentlytrimming the backsheet 26 to define narrower widths outside of the firstmaximum width zone 32. The backsheet 26 may be joined to the absorbentcore 28 and/or topsheet 24 before, during or after the trimming process.The formation of the material periphery 34 or chassis periphery 30 maybe achieved by any known means, including but not limited to diecutting, stamping, shear cutting, or the like.

In a further embodiment, the chassis periphery 30 continually slopesoutside of the first maximum width zone 32. By “continually slopes”, itis meant that the longitudinal edges are shaped such that the lateraldistance between the longitudinal edge 12 and the longitudinalcenterline 100 continually changes except within the first maximum widthzone 32. That is, any two adjacent points P1, P2 along a longitudinaledge 12 outside of the first maximum width zone 32 are disposed atdifferent lateral distances, D_(P1) and D_(P2), from the longitudinalcenterline 100. In one nonlimiting example, the angle α between (i) anystraight span, 12SP, on the longitudinal edge 12 outside of the maximumwidth zone 32 and (ii) the longitudinal centerline 100 is at least about2 degrees. Where the chassis 22 is formed from a starting materialhaving a continuous width equal to the first maximum width, W₁, thecontinual slope outside of the first maximum width zone 32 permits thechassis 22 to be formed without die cut spans that are parallel to thecenterline 100; such parallel spans are known to impact the die-toollife negatively by causing repetitive wear in the same areas resultingin shorter die life, increased maintenance costs, decreased lineefficiency and/or increased manufacturing costs.

In a further embodiment, the article 20 may comprise two leg gasketingsystems 70 disposed on opposite longitudinal sides (see FIG. 1 ). Insuch nonlimiting example, the article 20 may comprise a maximum cuffwidth, W_(cuff), such dimension being the maximum lateral distancebetween the outer cuff edges 77. In an embodiment, the maximum cuffwidth, W_(cuff), may be greater than the minimum chassis peripherywidth, W_(min), by at least about 10 mm or at least about 15 mm. Leggasketing systems 70 are discussed in more detail below.

In another embodiment shown in FIG. 3A, the backsheet 26 may comprise apolymeric film layer 261 having a maximum lateral width, W_(poly), whichis the maximum lateral dimension of the polymeric film layer. (FIG. 3schematically depicts the body-facing side 26 a of the backsheet 26.) Inone nonlimiting example, the polymeric film maximum lateral width,W_(poly), is less than the minimum chassis width, W_(min), asillustrated in FIG. 3A. The polymeric film maximum lateral width,W_(poly), may be less than the minimum chassis periphery width, W_(min),by at least about 5 mm or at least about 8 mm, or at least about 10 mm;and/or the polymeric film maximum lateral width, W_(poly), may be lessthan the minimum chassis periphery width, W_(min), by at least about 2.5mm on each longitudinal side 262 of the polymeric layer 261, or at leastabout 5 mm on each longitudinal side 262. The polymeric film layer 261may be positioned such that both of the layer's longitudinal edges 262are disposed inboard of the backsheet material periphery 34 and/orinboard of the chassis longitudinal edges 12. In one nonlimitingexample, the material periphery 34 is coterminous with the chassisperiphery 30 as discussed above. In another nonlimiting example, thepolymeric film maximum width, W_(poly), is greater than the minimumchassis width, W_(min). The polymeric film maximum width, W_(poly), maygreater than the minimum chassis periphery width, W_(min), by at leastabout 10 mm, or at least about 15 mm, or at least about 20 mm, or atleast about 5 mm on each longitudinal side 12 of the chassis at theminimum width, W_(min), or at least about 10 mm on each longitudinalside 12 of the chassis at the minimum width, W_(min). The polymeric filmmaximum width, W_(poly), may be less than the first maximum width, W₁,or less than the second maximum width, W₂.

An ear 42, having any of the features described above, may be includedin the second waist region 38 as shown in FIG. 3A. The back ear 42 maybe stretchable 42 a, such as an ear 42 formed from a zero strain stretchlaminate or other elastomeric material. Further, the stretchable backear 42 a may be highly extensible. In embodiments with stretchable ears42 a, it may be preferable to join a discrete back ear 42 due to thecost of materials utilized for stretchable ears 42 a versus the cost ofmaterials used to form the backsheet 26 and remaining chassis 22components. Where the chassis 22 is shaped by trimming the backsheet 26,the back ear 42 may be joined to the chassis 22 before, after or duringthe trimming process.

The discrete ear 42 may be joined to any suitable layer of the chassis22, and to any side of the chosen layer, at an ear attachment site 41.The ear 42 may be joined by any means known in the art. In a nonlimitingexample, the discrete ear 42 is joined to the body-facing side 26 a ofthe backsheet 26 as shown in FIGS. 3B and 3D. In another nonlimitingexample, the discrete ear 42 is joined to the garment-facing side 26 bof the backsheet 26 as shown in FIGS. 3A, 3C and 3E. In anothernonlimiting example, the ear 42 is joined to the body-facing side of theopacity strengthening patch 80 as shown in FIG. 8 . Alternatively, theear 42 may also be attached to the leg gasketing system 70.

Returning to FIG. 3A, a fastening system 44 comprising a fastener 46, asdescribed above, may be disposed on the ear 42. The fastener 46 maycomprise an inboard fastener edge 48 which is disposed on thebody-facing side 43 of the ear 42 and is the longitudinal edge of thefastener 46 closest to the longitudinal centerline 100. The fastener 46may be foldable such that is partially disposed on the body-facing side43 of the ear and partially disposed on the garment-facing side 45 ofthe ear (see, e.g., FIGS. 3B-3E). As depicted in FIGS. 3D and 3E, theinboard fastener edge 48 may be disposed such that the minimum lateraldistance, D_(LE-FE), between on the longitudinal edge 12 b and thefastener edge 48 (measured between any two parallel points on thoseedges, said points being disposed along on an imaginary lateral line) isabout 0 mm or greater, or from about 0 mm to about 40 mm, or from about1 mm to about 30 mm, or from about 2 mm to about 20 mm, or about 6 mm,or about 4 mm, reciting for each range every 1 mm interval therebetween.The minimum lateral distance, D_(LE-FE), is measured from thelongitudinal edge 12 b outboard, such that the ranges provided hereinresult in the chassis periphery 30 being coterminous with or inboard ofthe inboard fastener edge at the minimum lateral distance, D_(LE-FE). Inthis way, the fastener edge becomes easier to access when the ear 42 isattached to the garment-facing side 26 b of the backsheet 26, or thegarment-side 120 of the chassis 22. The fastener edge 48 may besubstantially straight, curvilinear, or combinations thereof.

When the first maximum width, W₁, is greater than the second maximum,W₂, accessibility of the fastener edge 48 can be further enhanced. Wherethe second maximum width, W₂, is greater than or equal to the firstmaximum width W₁ (as it is in known articles), issues can arise. Forexample, if W₂ were greater or equal to W₁ and the ear were joined tothe garment-facing side 120, 26 b of a layer of the chassis 22, thefastener edge 48 may be covered between the ear 42 and the chassis 22and thus difficult to find during application, as shown in FIG. 3C. If,in this width scenario (W₂≥W₁), the ear 42 were alternatively joined tothe body-facing side of a chassis layer (e.g., the body-facing side ofthe backsheet 26 a), then an excess, loose portion of chassis 22material may remain outboard of the attachment site 41 of the ear 42 asshown in FIG. 3B. The excess portion may look unsightly to an end-user.Further, including stretchable ears 42 a in the second region 38 in suchscenario could result in (i) the article's waist area being too largefor a given weight range of users and/or (ii) the ears being otherwiseinadequate for their desired purpose. When the second maximum width, W₂,is less than the first maximum width, W₁, these issues are avoided asshown in FIGS. 3D and 3E. The fastener edge 48 is visible and easier toengage and little to no excess material remains outboard the attachmentsite 41, without having to increase ear and/or bond site dimensions(either one of which could lead to extra costs and productioninefficiencies). Moreover, stretchable ears may be more optimallyutilized.

Elasticized Regions

The article 20 may comprise one or more elasticized regions 200 as shownfor example in FIGS. 4A through 5B. Elasticized regions 200 may bedisposed in leg cuffs 71, waist regions 36, 38, waist gasketing elements81 disposed in waist regions, ears 40, 42, and/or other portions of thearticle 20 as is known in the art. For purposes of this section, thelocation in which the elasticized region is found will be referred to asthe component 500. The component 500 comprises an outermost edge 502(e.g., cuff edge, waist edge, waist gasketing element edge, ear edge),which may be a folded edge 503. The elasticized region 200 may comprisean array 240 of elastic members 210, which may comprise differentproperties including but not limited to different strain levels and/ordifferent attachment profiles. The array 240 may be longitudinal orlateral depending on the structure of the component 500 and contractionrequirements. In some embodiments, elastic members 210 in the array 240run generally parallel to the component outermost edge 502.

The elastic members 210 may be elastomeric fibers, such as LYCRA® fibersavailable from IN VISTA of Wichita, KS in various decitex levels. Theskilled person may select the appropriate decitex based on the desiredcontraction and other principles discussed herein. Other suitableelastics can be made from natural rubber, such as elastic tape soldunder the trademark Fulflex 9411 by Fulflex Company of Middletown, R.I.The elastic members 210 may also comprise any heat shrinkable elasticmaterial as is well known in the art. In addition, elastic members 210may take a multitude of configurations. For example, the width may bevaried; a single strand or several parallel or non-parallel strands ofelastic material may be used; or a variety of shapes may be usedincluding rectilinear and curvilinear; or a variety of cross sectionalshapes can be used (circular, rectangular, square, etc.).

In one embodiment, adjacent elastic members 210 a, 210 b are spaced atleast 3.5 mm apart from one edge of the member to the other edge of themember, optionally at least 4 mm apart; optionally at least 4.5 mmapart; optionally at least 5 mm apart; optionally at least 5.5 mm apart;optionally at least 6 mm apart; optionally at least 6.5 mm apart;optionally at least 7 mm apart; optionally at least 7.5 mm apart;optionally at least 8 mm apart; optionally at least 8.5 mm apart;optionally at least 9 mm apart; optionally at least 9.5 mm apart;optionally at least 10 mm apart; optionally at least 10.5 mm apart;optionally at least 11 mm apart; optionally at least 11.5 mm apart;optionally at least 12 mm apart. The spacing is measured in thedirection perpendicular to the direction of extension (i.e., if theelastic members are longitudinally extending, the spacing is a lateralmeasurement).

Elastic members 210 may be sandwiched (i) between discrete layers of thecomponent 500, (ii) between the component 500 and the backsheet 26 orother portion of the article 20, and/or (iii) between a continuous pieceof material folded about itself to form layers of the component 500.Alternatively, elastic members 210 may be joined to an outer side of thecomponent 500 such that the elastic members are not sandwiched betweenlayers. The elastic members 210 may be joined to the component 500 orone or more of said layers by glue bond, heat bond, pressure bond,mechanical bonds, ultrasonic or any other bonding method known in theart. In an embodiment, one or more of the elastic members 210 are joinedto the component by strand coating.

The array 240 may comprise a first elastic member 214 and a secondelastic member 216. The first elastic member 214 may be disposed between(i) the component's outermost edge 502 and (ii) the second elasticmember 216, as shown for example in FIG. 4A. The first and secondelastic members 214, 216 may run generally parallel to the componentedge 502.

In an embodiment, the first elastic member 214 comprises a first elasticstrain, ε₁, and the second elastic member 216 comprises a second elasticstrain, ε₂. Strain may be determined by the Strain Test Method herein.The second elastic strain, ε₂, is different from the first elasticstrain, ε₁. In one nonlimiting example, the first and second elasticstrains, ε₁, ε₂, differ by at least about 50%, or from about 75% toabout 200%, or about 100% to about 150%, reciting for each range every10% increment therein, when said elastic members are joined to thecomponent 500 and/or chassis 22. In another nonlimiting example, thesecond elastic strain, ε₂, is greater than the first elastic strain, ε₁.In a further nonlimiting example, at time installing the elastics, thesecond elastic strain, ε₂, is greater than the first elastic strain, ε₁,by at least about 50%, or from about 75% to about 200%, or about 100% toabout 150%, reciting for each range every 10% increment therein.

One of skill in the art will recognize that the magnitude of straindifferences in comparative elastic members 210 during manufacturing maybe different than the magnitude of the strain differences of those samecomparative elastic members 210 in the final product; however, therelationship between the elastic members' strain (i.e., one is greaterthan the other) may remain apparent in the final article 20.

The article 20 may comprise additional elastic members 210 which maycomprise strain levels that are different from the first strain, ε₁,and/or different from the second strain, ε₂.

In a further embodiment shown in FIG. 4B, the article 20 may comprise afirst set of elastic members 214S and a second set of elastic members216S, where the first set 214S is disposed between (i) the outermostedge 502 and (ii) the second set 216S. The first set 214S comprises afirst aggregate strain (i.e., the sum of the strain levels of theelastic members in the set; each strain level being determined by theStrain Test Method herein), Σε₁, and the second set 216S comprises asecond aggregate strain, Σε₂. The second aggregate strain, Σε₂, isdifferent than the first aggregate strain, Σε₁. The second aggregatestrain, Σε₂, may be greater than the first aggregate strain, Σε₁.

It is believed that, in use, the higher strained elastic members (e.g.,216, 216S) seek to wrap about the smallest possible circumference whichrepresents the path length most closely matching their initialpre-stretched length and the lowest possible energy state the elasticmember 210 can achieve. By increasing the strain of an elastic member216 (or set of elastic members) that is further from the edge 502, saidelastic member 216 seeks to fit the wearer at a smaller circumferencethan the elastic member closer to the edge 502. The increased strain onthe inside elastic member 216 causes the outermost edge 502 to curveaway wearer as shown in an exemplary leg gasketing system schematicallydepicted in FIG. 4C. The curvature allows a side portion 506 of thecomponent 500 to contact the wearer's skin. In known constructions, theoutermost edge 502 contacts the wearer's skin. The present inventionallows for increased contact area between the article 20 and the skin inthe elasticized region 200, which reduces localized, effective pressureon the skin and skin redness, pressure marks and/or irritation caused bysuch localized, effective pressure. Moreover, the differential straincauses fewer larger gathers at a larger wavelength towards the edge 502where there is less contractive force and more consolidation of gathersaway from the edge (towards the inside portion of the elasticizedcomponent) where there is more contractive force. Gathers are a resultof the contraction of elastic members 210, where an elastic member 210is contracted from a stretched length to a relaxed length that isshorter than the stretched length. This contraction creates acontraction force (F) that is exerted on the component 500. Thecontraction force F causes the component 500 to have a reaction force(F_(R)) that results in the creation of gathers that contain thephysical characteristics of waves—oscillations that have a wavelength,amplitude, and frequency within a given phase.Wave Function: y(t)=A sin(wt+Δ),

-   -   where A=amplitude, w=frequency, A=phase or length (l).        The fewer, larger outer gathers at larger wavelengths reduces        the number of ridges at the component's outermost edge 502; such        ridges are known to irritate a wearer's skin.

Returning to FIGS. 4A and 4B, in some embodiments, the array 240 maycomprise adjacent elastic members 210 each joined in a different mannerto the component 500 in an attachment zone 218. The attachment zone 218is an area of the component 500 where the elastic members 210 in thearray 240 are joined to the component 500 and/or to the chassis 22. Inthe attachment zone, the first elastic member 214 can be joined to thecomponent 500 and/or chassis 22 at two attachment intervals 219. The twoattachment intervals 219 are separated by an unattached span 222. Thesecond elastic member 216 may be adjacent to the first elastic member214, and the second elastic member 216 can be continuously joined to thecomponent 500 and/or chassis 22 in the attachment zone 218. Saiddifferently, the elastic member 214 closest to the edge 502 is joined tothe component 500 and/or chassis 22 at two intervals separated by anunattached span and an adjacent elastic member 216 (disposed furtheraway from the edge 502) is continuously joined to the component and/orchassis 22. Alternatively, the first elastic member 214 can be joined tothe component and/or to the chassis 22 continuously in the attachmentzone 218 and the second elastic member 216 may be joined to thecomponent 500 and/or chassis 22 at two intervals separated by anunattached span.

Further to the above, an unattached span 222 may comprise a length offrom about 10 mm to about 60 mm, or at least about 20 mm, or at leastabout 30 mm or at least about 50 mm. In one nonlimiting example, glue212 is applied in the first attachment interval 221 and in the secondattachment interval 223, where said intervals are separated by anunglued span 222. The first attachment interval 221 may comprise thesame shape, length, width, bonding material, bond strength, volumeand/or density of bonding material (e.g., glue), and combinationsthereof as the second attachment interval 223. Alternatively, the firstand second intervals may differ in one or more of the above-mentionedcharacteristics. In a further nonlimiting example, at least oneattachment interval 219 comprises a length of at least about 15 mm, orabout 20 mm to about 100 mm, or about 30 mm, or about 40 mm, or about 60mm, or about 80 mm, reciting for each range every 5 mm incrementtherein. In another nonlimiting example, at least one attachmentinterval 219 comprises glue add-on rate of from about 0.0175 g/m toabout 0.0525 g/m, or from about 0.020 g/m to about 0.050 g/m, or fromabout 0.025 g/m to about 0.045 g/m, or from about 0.030 g/m to about0.040 g/m, or about 0.035 g/m, reciting for each range every 0.005 g/minterval therebetween. The length of the attachment interval 219 maychange based on the add-on rate and vice versa. The mentioned length andadd-on rates have been shown to increase the likelihood of a partiallyglued elastic member 210 maintaining its initial bond strength and/orbond dimensions over time. In one nonlimiting example, the attachmentinterval 219 comprises about a length of about 30 mm and an add-on rateof about 0.035 g/m. Length in this paragraph is measured in thedirection that elastic member 210 extends (e.g., longitudinal orlateral).

By differently joining adjacent elastic members in this way, it isbelieved that the potential for friction and/or pressure between thewearer's skin and the article 20 is reduced. The absence of bonds, suchas glue bonds, along the span of the first elastic member 214 reducesthe amount of contractive force on the component edge 502 and/or theedge of the article 20 closest and substantially parallel to the elasticmember 214. Further, the lack of bonding reduces stiffness and sharpnessof said edges. Moreover, when said component edge 502 or the closest,parallel article edge is folded, the lack of bonding may cause arounded, balloon-like effect wherein the elastic member 210 or portionsof the elastic member 210 may be free to move within the folded edge503.

As noted, the elastic members 210 may be joined to the chassis 22 and/orcomponent 500 by any suitable means. In one embodiment, the elasticmembers 210 are joined to the component 500 and/or chassis 22 with oneor more adhesive bonds 212. The adhesive bonds 212 may be applied usingstrand coating techniques, such as applying glue directly to the elasticmembers 210 with one or more glue applicators, such as slot glueapplicator. In one nonlimiting example, a glue applicator withindependently controlled zones is utilized. The two zones may beprogrammed to start and stop at different time intervals, such thatdiscrete glue intervals are applied to the first elastic member 214 inthe attachment zone 218 and glue is continuously applied to the secondelastic member 216 in the attachment zone 218. Alternatively, discreteglue intervals can be applied to the second elastic member 216 in theattachment zone 218 and glue can be continuously applied to the firstelastic member 214 in the attachment zone 218.

In another embodiment shown in FIG. 4D, an additional adhesive 253 maybe applied. The additional adhesive 253 may disposed in the unattachedspan 222. If the adhesive 253 is applied in the unattached span 222,portions of the elastic member 210 will be attached to surroundingmaterial in that span 222 and portions will remain unattached. In onenonlimiting example, the additional adhesive 253 is applied throughpatterned slot coating techniques as taught in U.S. Pat. Pub. Nos.2014/0148323, 2014/0148773, 2014/0148774 and 2014/0144579. In suchembodiment, the first elastic member 214 may comprise an attachmentpattern 220 and may be joined to the surrounding material by more thantwo attachment intervals 219. FIGS. 4D and 4E provide exemplary patterns220 but numerous patterns are contemplated. By attachment pattern, it ismeant a predetermined design comprising one or more shapes and/or lines;in a given pattern, at least one shape or line may repeat.

Turning to FIGS. 5A and 5B, in an embodiment, an elastic member 210 isjoined to the component 500 and/or chassis 22 at both a contractionstarting point 224 and a contraction ending point 226. A contractionregion 225 extends between the starting point 224 and ending point 226.Further, the elastic member 210 may be unattached and cut to releasetension in the snap back areas 213, which are disposed outside of thecontraction region 225. In the snap back areas 213, the elastic member210 is free to snap back to its original unstretched length withoutcontracting the surrounding material. Each starting point 224 may bedisposed along a start axis, and each ending point 226 may be disposedalong an end axis. Axis, with respect contraction starting and endingpoints, means an imaginary line intersecting the respective startingpoint or ending point and running perpendicular to the direction ofextension of the elastic members 210.

Each elastic member 210 in the array 240 may have a contraction region225 extending between a contraction starting point and a contractionending point. All of the contraction regions 225 for the elastic members210 in the array 240 are disposed within the attachment zone 218.Snap-back regions 213 may be disposed outside of the attachment zone218.

In known absorbent articles, the attachment starting points of multipleelastics are typically linear, meaning that the corresponding mechanicalor glue bonds for each elastic member is applied along the same axis (anaxis that is perpendicular to the direction of the extension of theelastic members). Likewise, the ending points are disposed along oneaxis. This has largely been due to limitations of equipment technologythat apply bonds at high speeds. If those starting points are locatedinboard of the chassis periphery, wrinkles to the chassis may be formedespecially when the starting points are near other bonds (e.g., cufftackdown bonds). The wrinkles create the impression of low quality andcan contribute to the pulling down of the chassis during use. Otherissues are created when the starting or ending points are disposedoutboard of the chassis periphery. For instance, in leg cuffs, ifstarting points or ending points are located outboard of the chassisperiphery, an uncontracted triangle shaped zone may be formed in the legcuff system (between a contoured chassis periphery and the imaginarylateral line created by the attachment starting points). Thatuncontracted triangle shaped zone creates a gap between the wearer andthe leg cuff system, precluding proper fit and creating an impression ofinadequate leakage protection.

By independently selecting the starting or ending points of elasticmembers 210 in the array 240, one or more of these issues may beavoided. In one embodiment shown in FIG. 5A, a first elastic member 214has first contraction starting point 224F disposed on a first start axis228 that runs substantially perpendicular to the direction of extensionof the elastic members 210 in the array 240. In such embodiment, asecond elastic member 216 has a second contraction starting point 224Sdisposed on a second start axis 229, where the second start axis 229also runs substantially perpendicular to the direction of extension ofthe elastic members 210 in the array. The first and second starting axes228, 229 may be different (i.e., not overlapping). By way of nonlimitingexample, two longitudinally extending elastic members may havecontraction starting points disposed on two different lateral axes. In afurther embodiment, the first elastic member 214 has a first contractionending point 226F disposed on a first end axis 230, and the secondelastic member 216 has a second contraction ending point 226S disposedon a second end axis 231. The first and second end axes 230, 231 eachrun substantially perpendicular to the direction of extension of theelastic members 210 and may be different (i.e., not overlapping). Insome embodiments, the first elastic member may comprise a firstcontraction region 225F and the second elastic member may comprise asecond contraction region 225S. The second contraction region 225S maybe different than the first contraction region 225F. In one nonlimitingexample, the contraction regions 225F, 225S differ in length (as shownin FIG. 5A and measured in the direction parallel to the direction ofextension of the elastic members). Additional nonlimiting examples ofdifferences in the contraction regions 225F, 225S include the amount ofcontraction, bonding material, bond strength and bond dimensions.

In a further embodiment shown in FIG. 5B, the array 240 comprises afirst set of elastic members 214S and a second set of elastic members216S. The first set 214S comprises a first set of contraction startingpoints 224F disposed on a first start axis 228 that runs substantiallyperpendicular to the direction of extension of the elastic members 210in the array 240. The second set 216S comprises a second set ofcontraction starting points 224S disposed on a second start axis 229that also runs substantially perpendicular to the direction of extensionof the elastic members 210 in the array 240. The start axes 228, 229 maybe different. In a further embodiment, the sets 214S, 216S each comprisea set of contraction ending points 226F, 226S disposed on different axes230, 231 as shown in FIG. 5B. In a further embodiment, the first set ofelastic members 214S may comprise one or more elastic members 214 havinga first contraction region 225F. The second set 216S may comprise andone or more elastic members 216 having a second contraction region 225S.The second contraction region 225S may be different than the firstcontraction region 225F. In one nonlimiting example, the contractionregions 225F, 225S differ in length (as shown in FIG. 5B and measured inthe direction parallel to the direction of extension of the elasticmembers). Additional nonlimiting examples of differences in thecontraction regions 225F, 225S include the amount of contraction,bonding material, bond strength and bond dimensions.

Varying the starting points, ending points and/or contraction regions ofelastic members 210 in the array 240 can prevent defects like wrinkles,prevent fit problems such as gaps created in snap back areas 213, andenhance fit by deliberating assigning contraction properties to thearticle at specific locations which may correspond to the article'scontours. In one embodiment, at least one the starting points 224F, 224Sand/or at least one of the ending points 226F, 226S are disposed on thechassis periphery 30 as shown in FIG. 5C in the context of an exemplaryleg gasketing system 70. In a further embodiment also shown in FIG. 5C,at least one of the starting points 224F, 224S and/or at least one ofthe ending points 226F, 226S are disposed a distance, D_(CE), from 0 mmto 6 mm of the chassis periphery 30 as measured in the direction ofextension of the elastic members from the respective elastic startingpoint or ending point to the nearest point on the chassis periphery insaid direction of extension.

In another embodiment shown in FIG. 5D, the chassis periphery 30comprises a first initial intersection point XF. The first initialintersection point XF is a point on the chassis periphery 30 where animaginary line F intersects the chassis periphery, the line F beingsuperimposed over the first elastic member 214 and extending in thedirection that the first elastic member 214 extends as shown in FIG. 5D.For ease of understanding, the component in FIG. 5D is shown to becoterminous with the chassis periphery along its outermost edge 502 andthe sides that are adjacent to said edge. The chassis periphery 30 mayfurther comprise a second initial intersection point XS. The secondinitial intersection point XS is a point on the chassis periphery 30where an imaginary line S intersects the chassis periphery, the line Sbeing superimposed over the second elastic member 216 and extending inthe direction that the second elastic member 216 extends. In onenonlimiting example, the first starting point 224F is disposed at anangle β with respect to the second starting point 224S. The firstinitial intersection point XF can be disposed at substantially the sameangle β with respect to the second initial intersection point XS. In analternative nonlimiting example, the first initial intersection point XFis disposed at angle β±5 degrees with respect to the second initialintersection point XS. In another embodiment, the chassis periphery 30comprises a first terminating intersection point YF defined by animaginary line F intersecting the chassis periphery 30 and beingsuperimposed on the first elastic member 214 and extending in thedirection of extension of the first elastic member 214. The chassisperiphery 30 may further comprise a second terminating intersectionpoint YS defined by an imaginary line S intersecting the chassisperiphery 30 and being superimposed on the second elastic member 216 andextending in the direction of extension of the second elastic member216. In one nonlimiting example, the first end point 226F is disposed atan angle γ with respect to the second ending point 226S. In suchexample, the first terminating intersection point YF may be disposed atthe same angle γ with respect to the second terminating intersectionpoint YS. Alternatively, the first terminating intersection point YF maybe disposed at an angle γ±5 degrees with respect to the secondterminating intersection point YS.

Returning to FIG. 5A, in some embodiments, a first elastic member 214 isdisposed a minimum distance D_(1-E) from the component outermost edge502 as measured perpendicularly to the direction of extension of theelastic members (i.e., if the elastic is longitudinally extending, theminimum distance of 3 mm is measured laterally). In one nonlimitingexample, the minimum distance D_(1-E) is greater than about 3 mm. Knowndisposable absorbent articles attach elastic members within 2 mm or lessof the component edge 502, which enhances contact with the wearer butincreases localized pressure on the skin and ridges near the edge 502due to small, high frequency gathers at or near the edge 502. Further,in embodiments where the edge is folded 503 and in embodiments whereelastic members 210 are sandwiched between two layers each having edgesthat are coterminous with the component outermost edge 502, a partiallyattached elastic member 214 nearest the edge 502 will tend to move intothe edge 502 during wear, which can also increase localized pressure.This migration occurs because the elastic member 214 seeks the smallestcircumference to wrap around in order to achieve its lowest energystate—the smallest circumference being the edge 502 in this case. Aminimum distance D_(1-E) of at least about 3 mm between the attachedportion of said elastic member 214 and the edge 502 causes the elasticmember 214 to be sufficiently trapped away from the outermost edge 502,reducing pressure and friction on the skin and allowing gathers to befelt by the wearer.

To the extent that the elasticized region is located in waist region 36or 38, the elastic members 210 may be disposed such that the absorbentarticle 20 may lay substantially flat during application. Positioningand other components of this aspect of the invention are discussed belowin the Waist Gasketing Element section.

In embodiments involving sets of elastic members, a set may comprisedifferentially strained elastic members 210 and/or adjacent elastics 210a, 210 b differently joined to the surrounding material as taught herein(see, for example, FIG. 5B).

With respect to all embodiments, the first elastic member 214 or firstset of elastic members 214S may be disposed between (i) the componentedge 502 and (ii) the second elastic member 216 or second set of elasticmembers 216S respectively.

Leg Gasketing System

The absorbent article 20 may comprise a leg gasketing system 70 attachedto the chassis 22, which may comprise an elasticized region 200discussed more fully below. The leg gasketing system 70 comprises one ormore cuffs 71. The leg gasketing system 70 may be constructed as, andcomprise one or more features, disclosed in commonly assigned U.S. App.No. 62/134,622.

In an embodiment, the leg gasketing system 70 comprises an inner cuff 72having an inner cuff edge 73. The inner cuff edge 73 may comprise aninner cuff material edge 74. Alternatively, the inner cuff material edge74 may be folded such that the cuff edge 73 comprises a folded innercuff edge 75. The leg gasketing system 70 may further comprise an outercuff 76 that comprises an outer cuff edge 77. The outer cuff edge 77 maycomprise the outer cuff material edge 78. Alternatively, the outer cuffmaterial edge 78 may be folded such that the outer cuff edge 77comprises a folded outer cuff edge 79.

FIGS. 6 and 7 depict schematic cross sectional views of the exemplaryleg gasketing systems of FIG. 1 in a flat, uncontracted state, the viewstaken through the lateral centerline 110 (FIG. 6 is a schematic crosssection of the left leg gasketing system, and FIG. 7 is a schematiccross section of both leg gasketing systems in relation to thetopsheet).

In one embodiment, each leg gasketing system 70 comprises a single,continuous web of material. In other embodiments, the leg gasketingsystem 70 may be formed from more than one web of material (e.g.,multiple webs of material that are joined together to become one web ofmaterial, or multiple distinct webs of material that are separate fromthe disposable absorbent article chassis and form part of the leggasketing system). Herein, locations (e.g., folded edge, material edge,etc.) on the leg gasketing system 70 are detailed in reference to “a webof material” or “a portion of the web of material.” The recitations of“a web of material” or “the web of material” refer to leg gasketingsystem embodiments that may be formed from a single, continuous web ofmaterial, multiple webs of material that are joined together to becomeone web of material, or multiple distinct webs of material that areseparate from the disposable absorbent article chassis and form part ofthe leg gasketing system. All such embodiments are contemplated.

In some embodiments, the web of material is folded laterally inward(toward the longitudinal centerline 100 of the absorbent article 20) toform the outer cuff folded edge 79 and folded laterally outward (awayfrom the longitudinal centerline 100 of the absorbent article 20) toform the inner cuff folded edge 75.

The cuffs 71 may be attached to the chassis 22 and/or each other 72, 76by any suitable means. In an embodiment, the outer cuff 76 is attachedto the chassis 22 through one or more cuff attachment bonds 52 asillustrated in FIG. 7 . Further, a cuff attachment bond 52 may attach atleast portion of web material in the outer cuff 76 to the opacitystrengthening patch 80 in at least a portion of the first waist region36 and at least a portion of the second waist region 38 as shown in FIG.8 . The opacity strengthening patch 80 may be attached to the innerlayer of the backsheet 26 by at least one OSP bond 53. In an embodiment,the inner cuff edge 73 comprises a folded edge 75 and the outer cuffedge 77 comprises a folded outer cuff edge 79. In such embodiment, atleast a portion of the web material between the inner cuff folded edge75 and the outer cuff folded edge 79 can be attached to at least aportion of the web of material between the outer cuff folded edge 79 andthe outer cuff material edge 78 in at least the crotch region 37 and thefirst waist region 36. The attachment of the web of material between theinner cuff folded edge 75 and the outer cuff folded edge 79 to the webof material between the outer cuff folded edge 79 and the outer cuffmaterial edge 78 in at least the crotch region 37 and the first waistregion 36 is made through utilization of one or more cuff separationbonds 54 (see FIG. 7 ). The leg gasketing system 70 may further comprisea pocket 55 arising from the web of material between the inner cufffolded edge 75 and the outer cuff folded edge 79 being unattached to theweb of material between the outer cuff folded edge 79 and the outer cuffmaterial edge 78 in one of the waist regions 36, 38 as shown in FIG. 8 .The pocket 55 may provide additional void volume within the leggasketing system 70 to receive exudates to help isolate fecal materialfrom the wearer's skin as well as contain exudates between the layers ofthe leg gasketing system 70 to prevent leakage. The pocket 55 maycomprise an opening 56 created by a break in the cuff separation bond 54or a series of breaks in the cuff separation bond 54. The pocket andopening can occur in the first waist region 36, the second waist region38 or the crotch region 37 as needed for the specific type of exudatesand particular situation where leakage prevention is desired. Attachmentof the outer cuff 76, the opacity patch 80 and/or inner cuff 72 and/orformation of the pocket 55 may be accomplished in accordance with thedisclosure of commonly assigned U.S. Patent App. No. 62/134,622. Thepocket 55 may be free from elastics 210.

In one embodiment shown in FIG. 9 , one or more attachment bonds 52 cancomprise a tackdown bond 58 which may be disposed in a waist region 36,38 and may extend longitudinally in a continuous or substantiallycontinuous manner in the waist region 36, 38. Attachment bonds 52, 58,OSP bonds 53 and/or cuff separation bonds 54 may take the form of glue,heat bond, pressure bond, mechanical bonds, ultrasonic or any otherbonding method known in the art. In one nonlimiting example, thetackdown bond 58 takes the form of a glue bond 60.

The leg gasketing system 70 may comprise one or more elasticized regions200 comprising one or more longitudinally extending elastic members 210as can be seen in FIGS. 5C-7 . The elastic members 210 may be joined tothe web material by any suitable means including mechanical bonds and/oradhesive bonds 212. In an embodiment illustrated in FIG. 5C, an elasticmember 210 is joined to the leg gasketing system 70 at both acontraction starting point and a contraction ending point. In suchembodiment, the elastic member 210 is contracted between the startingpoint and ending point, forming a contraction region 225. In anonlimiting example, the longitudinal length of the contraction region225 of a first elastic member 214 is different than the length of thecontraction region 225 of a second elastic member 216. In a furthernonlimiting example, the longitudinal length of the contraction region225 of the first elastic member 214 is greater than the longitudinallength of the contraction region 225 of the second elastic member 216.In another nonlimiting example, the contraction starting points may bedisposed on different lateral axes and/or the contraction ending pointsmay be disposed on different lateral axes as shown in FIG. 5C.Additional discussion of the contraction starting and ending points isincluded in the Elasticized Region section above.

As illustrated in FIGS. 6-7 and 9 , the inner cuff 72 may comprise aninner cuff elasticized region 200 _(IC) comprising one or morelongitudinally-extending elastic members 210 _(IC). The inner cuffelastic members 210 _(IC) may run substantially parallel to the innercuff edge 73. In one nonlimiting example, the elastic members 210 _(IC)may be disposed between the inner cuff folded edge 75 and the outer cuffmaterial edge 78. In an embodiment, the inner cuff elasticized region200 _(IC) comprises a first inner cuff elastic member 214 _(IC) disposedoutboard of the inner cuff edge 73 as shown in the flat, uncontractedstate in, for example, FIGS. 6-7 . The inner cuff elasticized region 200_(IC) may further comprise a second inner cuff elastic member 216 _(IC)disposed outboard the first inner cuff elastic member 214 _(IC) in theflat, uncontracted state. In some embodiments, the first inner cuffelastic member 214 _(IC) may be adjacent to the second inner cuffelastic member 216 _(IC). In one nonlimiting example, the first innercuff elastic member 214 _(IC) is disposed a minimum lateral distance,D_(I1-I2), from the second inner cuff elastic member 216 _(IC) asdepicted in FIG. 6 . The minimum lateral distance, D_(I1-I2), may befrom about 3.5 mm to about 10 mm.

In an embodiment, the first inner cuff elastic member 214 _(IC) and thesecond inner cuff elastic member 216 _(IC) may be differentiallystrained as discussed in more detail in the Elasticized Region sectionabove. The first inner cuff elastic member 214 _(IC) comprises a firstinner elastic strain, ε_(1ic), and the second inner cuff elastic member216 _(IC) comprises a second inner elastic strain ε_(2ic). Strain may bedetermined by the Strain Test Method herein. The first inner elasticstrain, ε_(1ic), may be different than the second inner elastic strain,ε_(2ic). In a nonlimiting example, the second inner elastic strain,ε_(2ic), is greater than the first inner elastic strain, ε_(1ic).

In a further embodiment shown in FIG. 9 , the leg gasketing system 70comprises an inner cuff elastic attachment zone 218 _(IC) in whichadjacent elastics 210 _(IC) may be joined to the leg gasketing system 70differently (which is discussed more completely above in the ElasticizedRegion section). In such embodiment, the inner cuff edge 73 is theoutermost edge 503 of the component, the component being the inner cuff72. In one nonlimiting example, the first inner cuff elastic member 214_(IC) is joined to the leg gasketing system 70 at a first innerattachment interval 221 _(IC) and at a second inner attachment interval223 _(IC). The first inner attachment interval 221 _(IC) may be at leastpartially disposed in the first waist region 36, and the second innerattachment interval 223 _(IC) may be at least partially disposed in thesecond waist region 38. The attachment intervals 221 _(IC), 223 _(IC)are separated by an unattached span 222 _(IC), which may be disposed inthe crotch region 37. In such example, the second inner cuff elasticmember 216 _(IC) is continuously joined to the leg gasketing system 70in the attachment zone 218 _(IC). In a further nonlimiting example, thesecond elastic member 216 _(IC) is continuously joined to the leggasketing system 70 in the crotch region 37. In a further nonlimitingexample, the elastic members 214 _(IC), 216 _(IC) are joined the webmaterial in the inner cuff 72 using one or more adhesive bonds 212, andthe unattached span 222 _(IC) comprises an unglued span 222 _(IC). It isalso contemplated that the second inner elastic member 216 _(IC) may bejoined at two attachment intervals 219 separated by an unattached span222, where the unattached span is disposed in the crotch region 37 andthe attachment intervals are partially disposed in waist regions 36, 38,and the first inner elastic member 214 _(IC) may be continuously joinedto the leg gasketing system 70 within the attachment zone 218 _(IC).

In another embodiment, the outer cuff 76 may comprise an outer cuffelasticized region 200 _(OC) comprising one or morelongitudinally-extending elastic members 210 _(OC). The outer cuffelastic members 210 _(OC) may run substantially parallel to the outercuff edge 77. In one nonlimiting example, the elastic members 210 _(OC)may be disposed between the outer cuff folded edge 79 and the inner cuffmaterial edge 74. In an embodiment, the outer cuff elasticized region200 _(OC) comprises a first outer cuff elastic member 214 _(OC) disposedinboard of the outer cuff edge 77 as shown in the flat, uncontractedstate in FIGS. 6-7 . The outer cuff elasticized region 200 _(OC) mayfurther comprise a second outer cuff elastic member 216 _(OC) disposedinboard of the first outer cuff elastic member 214 _(OC). In someembodiments, the first outer cuff elastic member 214 _(OC) may beadjacent to the second outer cuff elastic member 216 _(OC). In onenonlimiting example, the first outer cuff elastic member 214 _(OC) isdisposed a minimum lateral distance, D_(O1-O2), from the second outercuff elastic member 216 _(OC) as depicted in FIG. 6 . The minimumlateral distance, D_(O1-O2), may be from about 3.5 mm to about 10 mm.

In an embodiment, the first outer cuff elastic member 214 _(OC) and thesecond outer cuff elastic member 216 _(OC) may be differentiallystrained as discussed in more detail in the Elasticized Region sectionabove. The first outer cuff elastic member 214 _(OC) comprises a firstouter elastic strain, ε_(1oc), and the second outer cuff elastic member216 _(OC) comprises a second outer elastic strain, ε_(2oc). The firstouter elastic strain, ε_(1oc), may be different than the second outerelastic strain, ε_(2oc). In a nonlimiting example, the second outerelastic strain, ε_(2oc), is greater than the first outer elastic strain,ε_(1oc). Strain may be determined by the Strain Test Method herein.

In a further embodiment shown in FIG. 9 , the leg gasketing system 70comprises an outer cuff elastic attachment zone 218 _(OC) in which thefirst outer cuff elastic member 214 _(OC) and the second outer cuffelastic member 214 _(OC) may be joined to the leg gasketing system 70differently (which is discussed more completely above in the ElasticizedRegion section). In one nonlimiting example, the first outer cuffelastic member 214 _(OC) is joined to the leg gasketing system 70 at afirst outer attachment interval 221 _(OC) and a second outer attachmentinterval 223 _(OC). The first outer attachment interval 221 _(OC) may beat least partially disposed in the first waist region 36, and the secondouter attachment interval 223 _(OC) may be at least partially disposedin the second waist region 38. The attachment intervals 221 _(OC), 223_(OC) are separated by an unattached span 222 _(OC), which may bedisposed in the crotch region 37. In such example, the second outer cuffelastic member 216 _(OC) is continuously joined to the leg gasketingsystem 70 in the attachment zone 218 _(OC). In a further nonlimitingexample, the elastic members 214 _(OC), 216 _(OC) are joined the webmaterial in the outer cuff 76 using one or more adhesive bonds 212, andthe unattached span 222 _(OC) comprises an unglued span 222 _(OC). Whiledescribed above in terms of the second elastic member being continuouslyjoined to the leg gasketing system 70 and the first outer cuff elasticmember being attached at two intervals 219 separated by an unattachedspan 222, it is also contemplated that the second outer elastic member216 _(OC) may be joined at two attachment intervals 219 separated by anunattached span 222 and the first elastic member 214 _(OC) may becontinuously joined to the leg gasketing system 70 within the attachmentzone 218 _(OC).

The inner cuff 72 and/or outer cuff 76 may comprise additional cuffelastic members 210. The inner cuff 72 may comprise at least one elasticmember 210, at least two elastic members 210, at least three elasticmembers 210, at least four elastic members 210, or at least five elasticmembers 210. The outer cuff 76 may comprise at least two elastic members210, at least three elastic members 210, at least four elastic members210, at least five elastic members 210, or at least six elastic members210. In one embodiment, the inner cuff 72 comprises an array of elasticmembers positioned between the inner cuff folded edge 75 and the innercuff material edge 74. The elastic members 210 _(IC) may be attached tothe portion of the web of material that forms the inner cuff 72 byelastics adhesive 212. In such an embodiment, the elastics 210 _(IC) arepositioned between i) the portion of the web of material between theinner cuff folded edge 75 and the inner cuff material edge 74, and ii)the portion of the web material between the inner cuff folded edge 75and the outer cuff folded edge 79. Likewise, the outer cuff 76 maycomprise elastic members 210 _(OC) positioned in a lateral array betweenthe outer cuff folded edge 79 and outer cuff material edge 78. Theelastics 210 _(OC) may be attached to the portion of the web of materialthat forms the outer cuff by elastics adhesive 212. In such anembodiment, the elastic members 210 _(OC) are positioned between i) theportion of the web of material between the outer cuff folded edge 79 andthe outer cuff material edge 78, and ii) the portion of the web materialbetween the outer cuff folded edge 79 and the inner cuff folded edge 75.

In an embodiment, any elastic members 210 _(IC) in the inner cuff 72and/or any elastic members 210 _(OC) in the outer cuff 76 may bedifferentially strained. Strain levels in the outer cuff 76 may be thesame as or different than strain levels in the inner cuff 72. In afurther embodiment, the first inner elastic strain, ε_(1ic), isdifferent than the first outer elastic strain, ε_(1oc). In onenonlimiting example, the first inner elastic strain, ε_(1ic), is greaterthan the first outer elastic strain, ε_(1oc). In another nonlimitingexample, the first inner elastic strain, ε_(1ic), is less than the firstouter elastic strain, ε_(1oc). In another embodiment, the second innerelastic strain, ε_(2ic), is different than the second outer elasticstrain, ε_(2oc). In one nonlimiting example, the second inner elasticstrain, ε_(2ic), is greater than the second outer elastic strain,ε_(2oc). In another nonlimiting example, the second inner elasticstrain, ε_(2ic), is less than the second outer elastic strain, ε_(2oc).

In still another embodiment, any adjacent elastic members 210 _(IC) inthe inner cuff 72 and/or any adjacent elastic members 210 _(OC) in theouter cuff 76 may be differently joined to the leg gasketing system 70in the respective attachment zones 218 _(IC), 218 _(OC). In a furtherembodiment, adjacent elastic members 210 _(OC) in the outer cuff 76 maybe attached differently than adjacent elastics 210 _(IC) in the innercuff 72. In one nonlimiting example, the first inner elastic member 214_(IC) is joined to the leg gasketing system in IC attachment pattern 220_(IC) and the first outer elastic member 214 _(OC) is joined to the leggasketing system 70 in an OC attachment pattern 220 _(OC). The ICattachment pattern 220 _(IC) may be different from the OC attachmentpattern 220 _(OC). Alternatively, the IC attachment pattern 220 _(IC)may be the same as the OC attachment pattern 220 _(IC). The attachmentpatterns 220 may be formed by pattern slot coating.

In one embodiment, the outer cuff 76 and inner cuff 72 are the samecolor. In one embodiment, the outer cuff 76 and inner cuff 72 aredifferent colors. In one embodiment, there is an additional printing onone or more of the cuffs 71 of the leg gasketing system 70. Inembodiments with printing on both the inner 72 and outer cuffs 76, theprinting may be the same or different on each cuff 71.

In some embodiments, the outer cuff edge 77 extends outboard of thechassis periphery 30 in the crotch region 37 to form an exposed outercuff 76E as shown in FIGS. 5C and 9 . In one nonlimiting example, thebacksheet 26 and/or polymeric film layer 261 may be spaced laterallyinward of the outer cuff edge 77 by about 10 mm; optionally about 20 mm;optionally about 30 mm; optionally about 40 mm. In another nonlimitingexample, the outer cuff edge 77 extends outboard of the chassisperiphery 30 for a maximum longitudinal distance, L_(exp), of from about10 mm to about 35 mm, or from about 15 mm to about 20 mm, as measuredbetween intersection points C and D where the outer cuff edge 77intersects the chassis periphery 30 as shown in FIG. 9 . In a furthernonlimiting example, the lateral distance, D_(O1-OE), between the firstouter cuff elastic member 214 _(OC) and the outer cuff edge 77 may beabout 5% to about 55%, or from about 6% to about 50% of the maximumlongitudinal distance, L_(exp), for each range reciting every 5%increment therein. The outer cuff edge 77 may comprise a folded outercuff edge 79 in such example. Alternatively, the outer cuff edge 77 maycomprise two or more layers that have edges coterminous with the outercuff edge 77 in such example. In another nonlimiting example, thelateral distance, D_(O2-OE), between the second outer cuff elasticmember 216 _(OC) and the cuff edge 77 may be about 30% or greater of themaximum longitudinal distance, L_(exp), or from about 35% to about 95%of the maximum longitudinal distance, L_(exp), for each range recitingeach 5% increment therebetween. In such nonlimiting example, the cuffedge 77 may comprise a folded cuff edge 79 or the cuff edge 77 may becoterminous with the edges of two or more layers of the outer cuff 76.In these embodiments, it is believed that the first elastic member 214_(OC) will resist the tendency to move into the cuff edge 77 asdiscussed more completely in the Elasticized Region section.

In one embodiment, the leg gasketing system 70 is spaced laterallyinward of the chassis longitudinal edge 12 by about 10 mm, optionallyabout 20 mm, optionally about 30 mm, optionally about 60 mm or more. Inanother embodiment, at least a portion of the lateral edge of the outercuff 76 extends to the laterally outboard edge 13, 14 of the chassis 22as shown, for example, in FIG. 9 . In still another embodiment, at leasta portion of the lateral edge of the outer cuff 76 is disposedlongitudinally inboard of the laterally outboard edge 13, 14 of thechassis 22.

In one embodiment, the outboard edge 77 of the leg gasketing system 70is disposed laterally inboard of at least a portion of the longitudinaledge of the article 20 in at least one of the waist regions 36, 38.Thus, in one embodiment, the front ears 40 and/or back ears 42 extendpast the leg gasketing system 70.

As shown in FIG. 10 , the outer cuff 76 has an outer cuff height,H_(OC), and the inner cuff 72 has an inner cuff height, H_(IC). In anembodiment, the inner cuff height, H_(IC), is less than the outer cuffheight, H_(OC). In alternative embodiments, the outer cuff height,H_(OC), and the inner cuff height, H_(IC), are substantially equivalentor the inner cuff height, H_(IC), is greater than the outer cuff height,H_(OC). In one embodiment, the height of the inner cuff, H_(IC), is atleast about 10 mm, at least about 20 mm, at least about 30 mm, at leastabout 32 mm, at least about 35 mm, or at least about 38 mm. In oneembodiment, the outer cuff height, H_(OC), is at least about 15 mm, atleast about 23 mm, at least about 25 mm, at least about 27 mm, or atleast about 30 mm. The inner cuff height, H_(IC), is measured along alateral line from inner cuff edge 73 to the first point of connection tothe chassis 20 in the crotch region 37. The outer cuff height ismeasured along a lateral line from the outer cuff edge 77 to the firstpoint of connection to the chassis 20 in the crotch region 37. In onenonlimiting example, the height of the inner cuff is measured along alateral line from inner cuff folded edge 75 to the first point ofconnection to a material beyond the inner cuff material edge 74 in thecrotch region. Further, the outer cuff height is measured along alateral line from the outer cuff folded edge 75 to the first point ofconnection the inner cuff 72 has to a material beyond the inner cuffmaterial edge 73 in the crotch region 37. Thus, in such example, theinner and outer cuffs are measured from their respective folded edges tothe point where the inner cuff is connected to the first material beyondthe inner cuff material edge 74. Where the outer cuff height, H_(OC), isgreater than or appears greater than the inner cuff height, H_(IC), inthe contracted state, the intended function of the outer cuff (as asecondary barrier) is indicated to the user. In some embodiments, theinner cuff elastic members comprise an aggregate strain level that ishigher than the aggregate strain of the outer cuff elastics. In thisway, the path length of the inner cuff elastic members in the contractedstate is shorter than the path length of the outer cuff elastic members,and consequently, the outer cuff may appear to have a greater heightthan the inner cuff. In such embodiments, the outer cuff height, H_(OC),may actually be greater than the inner cuff height, H_(IC).

In embodiments where the cuff edge 73, 77 comprises a folded cuff edge75, 79 and/or in embodiments where more than one layers has an edgecoterminous with the cuff edge 73, 77, the first elastic member 214 maybe disposed a lateral distance, D_(1-E), of at least about 3 mm from thecuff edge 73, 77. In this way, the first elastic member 214 will resistthe tendency to be move into the edge 73, 77 as discussed morecompletely above in the Elasticized Region section.

The inner and/or outer cuff 72, 76 may comprise sets of elastic members214S, 216S and any of the embodiments taught with respect to sets in theElasticized Region section herein. Further, one or more of the cuffs 71may be constructed of N-fiber as discussed below.

Waist Gasketing Element

The disposable absorbent article 20 may include at least one waistgasketing element 81 attached to the chassis 22. The waist gasketingelement 81 may be disposed on the body facing side 115 of the chassis ora body-facing side of a layer of the chassis 22. In an embodiment, thewaist gasketing element 81 comprises an elasticized waistband 94 asshown in FIG. 1 . In another embodiment, the waist gasketing element 81comprises a waist gasketing element pocket 93 as shown in FIG. 11 . Thepocket 93 may be formed from a portion of the waist gasketing element 81that is unattached from the chassis 22. Waist gasketing elements 81 maybe joined to the chassis 22 in the first waist region 36 and/or in thesecond waist region 38. In one nonlimiting example, the waist gasketingelement 81 is disposed in the second waist region 38.

In one embodiment, the at least one waist gasketing element 81 comprisesa single, continuous web of material. In other embodiments, the waistgasketing element(s) 81 may be formed from more than one web of material(e.g., multiple webs of material that are joined together to become oneweb of material, or multiple distinct webs of material that are separatefrom the disposable absorbent article chassis and form part of the waistgasketing element). Herein, locations (e.g., folded edge, material edge,etc.) on the waist gasketing element 81 are detailed in reference to “aweb of material”, “a portion of the web of material” or “waistmaterial.” The recitations of “a web of material” or “the web ofmaterial” or “waist material” refer to waist gasketing elementembodiments that may be formed from a single, continuous web ofmaterial, multiple webs of material that are joined together to becomeone web of material, a single material that is folded to form multiplelayers of the same material, a single material that is slit apart andrejoined together, or multiple distinct webs of material that areseparate from the disposable absorbent article chassis and form part ofthe waist gasketing element 81. All such embodiments are contemplated.

In one embodiment, the waist gasketing element 81 includes an inboardlateral edge 82, an outboard lateral edge 83, and two longitudinal edges84. The outboard lateral edge 83 may be coterminous with a waist edge13, 14. Alternatively, the outboard lateral edge 83 may be disposedlongitudinally inward of the waist edge 13, 14.

In some embodiments, the web of material forming the waist gasketingelement 81 is folded longitudinally outward (away from the lateralcenterline 110 of the absorbent article 20) to form the inboard lateraledge 82. In such embodiments, the inboard lateral edge 82 is also thelocation of the waist gasketing element folded edge 89 and the outboardlateral edge 83 is also the location of the waist gasketing elementfirst material edge 90 and the waist gasketing element second materialedge 91. Although an embodiment depicting a waist gasketing element 81with one folded edge 89 and two material edges 90, 91 is shown in FIG.11 , alternate constructions of useful waist gasketing elements arecontemplated. For example, an alternate waist gasketing element 81 mayinclude two distinct webs of material and therefore have four materialedges (two on the inboard lateral edge 82, and two on the outboardlateral edge 83). As another example, an alternate waist gasketingelement may have a continuous web material that is formed into havingtwo folded edges (one on the inboard lateral edge 82, and one on theoutboard lateral edge 83) and two material edges.

In a further embodiment, the waist gasketing element 81 may be used inconjunction with a leg gasketing system 70 as shown in FIG. 11 . In suchembodiment, the waist gasketing element 81 is attached to: 1) thechassis 22 and 2) the leg gasketing system 70, such that at least aportion of the outboard lateral edge 83 of the waist gasketing element81 is attached to the chassis 22 and at least a portion of the outboardlateral edge 83 of the waist gasketing element 81 is attached to the webof material of the leg gasketing system 70. The inboard lateral edge 82of the waist gasketing element 81 may be unattached, partiallyunattached or fully attached to the chassis 22 of the disposableabsorbent article 20. In embodiments that include a waist gasketingelement 81 that has a waist gasketing element folded edge 89, a waistgasketing element first material edge 90, and a waist gasketing elementsecond material edge 91, at least a portion of the web of materialbetween the waist gasketing element folded edge 89 and waist gasketingelement second material edge 91 is attached to the topsheet 24 and/orbacksheet 26 of the chassis 22. The attachment of the waist gasketingelement 81 to the chassis 22 is made through utilization of one or moreoutboard lateral edge bonds 85 (see, for example, the rear waistgasketing element on FIG. 11 ). The outboard lateral edge bond 85attaches at least a portion of the waist gasketing element's web ofmaterial between the waist gasketing element folded edge 89 and thewaist gasketing element second material edge 91 to the topsheet 24. Inone embodiment, the attachment bond 85 is at the second waist edge 14 ofthe chassis 22; in other embodiments, the attachment bond is placed atleast 2 mm inboard from the waist edge of the chassis; at least 10 mminboard from the waist edge of the chassis; at least 20 mm inboard fromthe waist edge of the chassis; at least 50 mm inboard from the waistedge of the chassis; or any range or distance within the range of about2 mm to about 50 mm inboard from the waist edge of the chassis. Theoutboard lateral edge bond 85 may take the form of glue, heat bond,pressure bond, mechanical bonds, or any other bonding method known inthe art. In the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 11 , the outboard lateraledge bond 85 takes the form of a glue bond.

In embodiments that include a waist gasketing element 81 that has awaist gasketing element folded edge 89, a waist gasketing element firstmaterial edge 90, and a waist gasketing element second material edge 91,at least a portion of the web of material between the waist gasketingelement folded edge 89 and waist gasketing element second material edge91 is attached to the web of material forming the leg gasketing system70. The attachment of the waist gasketing element 81 to the web ofmaterial forming the leg gasketing system 70 is made through utilizationof one or more longitudinal edge bond(s) 86. As seen in the embodimentof FIG. 11 (see the rear waist gasketing element), the longitudinal edgebonds 86 attach at least a portion of the waist gasketing element's webof material between the waist gasketing element folded edge 89 and thewaist gasketing element second material edge 91 to the web of materialforming the leg gasketing system 70. The longitudinal edge bonds 86 canbe located adjacent to the longitudinal edges 84 of the waist gasketingelement 81 (or may be coterminous therewith). In another embodiment, thelongitudinal edge bonds 86 are located adjacent to the inner cuff foldededge 75 of the leg gasketing system 70 (or may be coterminoustherewith). The waist gasketing element 81 may be attached to the leggasketing system 70 over substantially the entire area that the leggasketing system 70 overlaps with the waist gasketing element 81. Insome embodiments, the waist gasketing element 81 is attached to the leggasketing system 70 over more than about 50%, more than about 60%, morethan about 70%, more than about 80%, more than about 90%, or more thanabout 95%, of the entire area that the leg gasketing system 70 overlapswith the waist gasketing element 81. The longitudinal edge bonds 86 maytake the form of glue, heat bond, pressure bond, mechanical bonds, orany other bonding method known in the art. In the exemplary embodimentof FIG. 11 , the longitudinal edge bonds 86 take the form of a gluebond.

In one nonlimiting example, the combination of the longitudinal edgebonds 86, the lateral outward edge bond 85 and unattached portion of theinboard lateral edge 82 of the waist gasketing element 81 (i.e.,unattached from the chassis 22) forms a pocket 93. When the wearermoves, a portion of the bodily exudates will migrate into the waistgasketing element pocket 93 for containment and be held/trapped betweentwo layers of nonwoven before it can leak out in an area between thewearer's back and the back waist region 38 of the absorbent article 20.In addition, the waist gasketing element pocket 93 provides additionalvoid volume within the waist region to receive the fecal material whichhelps in isolating the fecal material from wearer's skin.

The waist gasketing element 81 and its attachment to the chassis 22 maybe in accordance with U.S. Patent App. No. 62/134,622.

A waist region 36, 38 may comprise an elasticized region 200 comprisingone or more laterally extending elastic members 210. The waist elasticmembers 210 may be disposed in an array 240. In one nonlimiting example,the waist elasticized region 200 _(W) is disposed in a waist gasketingelement 81 that is disposed within a waist region 36, 38. In the waistelasticized region 200 _(W), one or more elastic members 210 _(W) may bejoined to the chassis 22 in the waist region and/or joined to the web ofwaist material. The elastic members 210 _(W) may be joined to thechassis 22 and/or waist gasketing element 81 by any suitable meansincluding mechanical bonds and/or adhesive bonds 212. In one nonlimitingexample, the elastics may be positioned between i) the portion of theweb of material between a waist gasketing element folded edge 89 and thewaist gasketing element first material edge 90, and ii) the portion ofthe web material between the waist gasketing element folded edge 89 andthe waist gasketing element second material edge 91.

In an embodiment, an elastic member 210 _(W) can be joined to thechassis and/or to the waist gasketing element 81 at both a contractionstarting point and a contraction ending point, forming a contractionregion 225 therebetween. In one nonlimiting example shown in FIG. 12 ,the longitudinal edges 84 of the waist gasketing element 81 arecoterminous with the longitudinal edges of the chassis in the waistregion 12 a, 12 b. (FIG. 12 schematically depicts the first waist regionbut is equally applicable to embodiments where the second waist regioncomprises an elasticized region 200 _(w).) In a further embodiment, thelateral length of the contraction region 225 _(WF) of a first waistelastic member 214 _(w) may be different than the length of thecontraction region 225 _(WS) of a second waist elastic member 216 _(w).The contraction starting points 224 _(FW), 224 _(SW) of the first andsecond waist elastic members 214 _(w), 216 _(w) may be disposed ondifferent longitudinal axes 228 _(W), 229 _(W). Likewise, thecontraction ending points 226 _(FW), 226 _(SW) may be disposed ondifferent longitudinal axes 230 _(W), 231 _(W). Additional discussion ofthe contraction starting and ending points is included in theElasticized Region section above.

Returning to FIG. 11 , the first waist region 36 and/or second waistregion 38 may comprise an elasticized region 200 _(w) having an array240 of waist elastic members 210 _(w). In one embodiment, the firstwaist region 36 comprises a first waist elasticized region 200 _(w1)comprising a first waist elastic member 214 _(w) and a second waistelastic member 216 _(w). The first waist elastic member 214 _(w) may bedisposed between (i) the waist edge 13 and (ii) the second waist elasticmember 216 _(w). In some embodiments, the first waist elastic member 214_(w) is adjacent to the second waist elastic member 216 _(w). In onenonlimiting example, the first and second waist elastic members 214_(w), 216 _(w) are disposed a longitudinal distance, L_(w1-w2), apartfrom about 3.5 mm to about 10 mm.

In another embodiment, the second waist region 38 comprises a secondwaist elasticized region 200 _(W2) comprising a first back waist elasticmember 215 _(w) and a second back waist elastic member 217 _(w). Thefirst back waist elastic member 215 _(w) may be disposed between (i) thewaist edge 14 and (ii) the second back waist elastic member 217 _(w). Insome embodiments, the first back waist elastic member 215 _(w) isadjacent to the second back waist elastic member 217 _(w). In onenonlimiting example, the first and second back waist elastic members 215_(w), 217 _(w) are disposed a longitudinal distance, L_(w3-w4), apart offrom about 3.5 mm to about 10 mm.

In another embodiment, waist elastic members 210 _(w) in the array 240may be differentially strained as discussed in more detail in theElasticized Region section above. In one embodiment, the first waistelastic member 214 _(w) comprises a first waist elastic strain, ε_(1w),and the second waist elastic member 216 _(w) comprises a second waistelastic strain, ε_(2w). The first waist elastic strain, ε_(1w), may bedifferent than the second waist elastic strain, ε_(2w). In onenonlimiting example, the second waist elastic strain, ε_(2w), is greaterthan the first waist elastic strain, ε_(1w). In another embodiment, thefirst back waist elastic member 215 _(w) comprises a first back waistelastic strain, ε_(w3), and the second back waist elastic member 217_(w) comprises a second back waist elastic strain, ε_(w4). The firstback waist strain, ε_(w3), may be different than the second back waistelastic strain, ε_(w4). In one nonlimiting example, the second backwaist strain, ε_(w4), is greater than the first back waist strain,ε_(w3).

In a further embodiment, the waist elasticized region 200 _(w) comprisesadjacent waist elastic members joined to the waist gasketing element 81differently. In such embodiment, the first waist elastic member 214 _(w)may be adjacent to the second waist elastic member 216 _(w) and/or thefirst back waist elastic member 215 _(w) may be adjacent to the secondback waist elastic member 217 _(w). In one nonlimiting example, thefirst waist elastic member 214 _(w) is joined to the waist gasketingelement 81 at first and second front waist attachment intervals 221_(w1), 223 _(w1). The attachment intervals 221 _(w1), 223 _(w1) areseparated by an unattached span 222 _(w1). The first waist attachmentinterval 221 _(w1) can be disposed proximate to or touch a longitudinaledge 12, and the second waist attachment interval 223 _(w1) can bedisposed proximate to or touch the opposite longitudinal edge 12 asshown in FIGS. 11-12 . In such example, the second waist elastic member216 _(w) is continuously joined to the waist gasketing element 81. It isalso contemplated that the second waist elastic member 214 _(w) may bejoined at two attachment intervals 219 separated by an unattached span222 and the first waist elastic member 214 _(w) may be continuouslyjoined to the waist gasketing element 81 with the attachment zone 218_(w1).

In another nonlimiting example, the first back waist elastic member 215_(w) is joined to the waist gasketing element 81 at first back andsecond back waist attachment intervals 221 _(w3), 223 _(w3). The firstback waist attachment interval 221 _(w3) can be disposed proximate to ortouch a longitudinal edge 12, and the second back waist attachmentinterval 223 _(w3) can be disposed proximate to or touch the oppositelongitudinal edge 12 as shown in FIGS. 11-12 . In such example, thesecond back waist elastic member 217 _(w) is continuously joined to thewaist gasketing element 81. The elastic members 210 _(w) may be joinedto the waist gasketing element 81 by one or more adhesive bonds 212, andthe unattached span 222 _(w3) may comprise an unglued span 222 _(w3). Itis also contemplated that the second back waist elastic member 217 _(w)may be joined at two attachment intervals 219 separated by an unattachedspan 222 and the first back waist elastic member 215 _(w) may becontinuously joined to the waist gasketing element 81 with theattachment zone 218 _(w2).

Elasticized regions in the first and/or the second waist region maycomprise additional waist elastic members 210 _(w). In an embodiment,the waist elasticized region 200 _(w) may comprise at least two waistelastic members 210 _(w), at least three waist elastic members 210 _(w),at least four elastic members 210 _(w), at least five elastic members210 _(w), at least six waist elastic members 210 _(w), at least sevenwaist elastic members 210 _(w), at least eight waist elastic members 210_(w), at least nine waist elastic members 210 _(w), at least ten waistelastic members 210 _(w), at least eleven waist elastic members 210_(w), or at least twelve waist elastic members 210 _(w).

In an embodiment, any waist elastic members 210 _(w) in the first waistregion 36 and/or any waist elastic members 210 _(w) in the second waistregion 38 may be differentially strained. Further, strain levels in thefirst waist region 36 may be the same as or different than strain levelsin the second waist region 38. In a further embodiment, the first waistelastic strain, ε_(W1), is different than the first back waist elasticstrain, ε_(W3). In one nonlimiting example, the first waist elasticstrain, ε_(W1), is greater than the first back waist elastic strain,ε_(W3). In another nonlimiting example, the first waist elastic strain,ε_(W1), is less than the first back waist elastic strain, ε_(W3). Inanother embodiment, the second waist strain, ε_(W2), is different thanthe second back waist elastic strain, ε_(4W). In one nonlimitingexample, the second waist strain, ε_(W2), is greater than the secondback waist elastic strain, ε_(4W). In another nonlimiting example, thesecond waist strain, ε_(W2), is less than the second back waist elasticstrain, ε_(4W).

In still another embodiment, any adjacent elastic members 210 _(w) inthe first waist region 36 and/or any adjacent elastic members 210 _(w)in the second waist region 38 may be differently joined to the waistgasketing element 81 in the respective attachment zones 218 _(w1), 218_(w2). In a further embodiment, adjacent elastic members 210 _(w) in thefirst waist region 36 may be attached differently than adjacent elastics210 _(w) in the second waist region 38. In one nonlimiting example, thefirst waist elastic member 214 _(W) is joined to the waist gasketingelement 81 in first region attachment pattern 220 _(W1) and the firstback waist elastic member 215 _(W) is joined to the waist gasketingelement 81 in a second region attachment pattern 220 _(W3). The firstregion attachment pattern 220 _(W1) may be different from the secondregion attachment pattern 220 _(W3). Alternatively, the first regionattachment pattern 220 _(W1) may be the same as the second regionattachment pattern 220 _(W3). The attachment patterns 220 _(W1), 220_(W3) may be formed by pattern slot coating.

The waist elasticized region 200 _(w) is used to the contract thearticle in the waist region 36, 38 to enhance fit about the wearer.While not intending to be bound by theory, the contractive forces in theelastic members 210 _(w) cause the contraction of the portion of thearticle 20 where the elastic members 210 _(w) are disposed. However,identical elastic members 210 _(w) (e.g., size, decitex, etc.) underidentical strain levels disposed in the elasticized region 200 _(w) caneach provide a different level of contraction on surrounding materialsdepending on their respective locations and the stiffness and/orrigidity of the materials to which the elastics 210 _(w) are attached orare otherwise in close proximity. By way of example, where the core 28is disposed inboard of the waist edge (as shown in FIGS. 13A and 13B),an elastic member 210 _(w) disposed over the core 28 (and other layersjoined to the core 28) and applied at a given condition may exhibit lesscontraction than an identical elastic member 210 _(w) applied at thesame given condition but disposed within the topsheet and backsheetlaminate alone. Likewise, an elastic member 210 _(w) disposed furtherfrom the waist edge (and thus being surrounded by more material) willexhibit less contraction than an identical elastic member 210 _(w)disposed closer to the waist edge. As a result of the differentcontraction in individual elastic members 210 _(w), the respectivesurrounding materials (i.e., the materials immediately surrounding eachelastic member 210 _(w) whether above, below or adjacent) will alsoexperience a difference in contraction. Essentially, the rigid, stiffermaterials counteract an elastic member's 210 _(w) contractive force,causing the force equilibrium to be reached at a lower contraction levelthan if the elastic member 210 _(w) were placed over less stiff, moreflexible materials.

The contraction causes the waist region where the elasticized region 200_(w) is disposed to bend towards the waist edge—that is, in a convexmanner with respect to the less stiff, more bendable area, which iscloser to the waist edge. The convex shape precludes the article fromlying flat and/or causes the lateral edge of the article to curveinwards while lying flat. Each issue makes it harder to find fastenerson the article because (i) the fasteners 46 are disposed at an angle asopposed to linearly, (ii) the lateral distance of the waist region isshorter and the fasteners 46 are therefore less visible when the articleis disposed around or under the wearer during application, and (iii) theraising and contraction of the material may cause the waist region tobend even further inward when the wearer is laid upon the article,hiding the fastening system 44. Moreover, the fasteners 46 are not aseasily secured to the intended landing zones 47 due to the undesiredcurvature of the waist region in the elasticized region 200 _(w).

The inventors have found that the tendency to bend is reduced oreliminated by increasing the actual contractive force of elastic members210 _(w) disposed inboard (i.e., closer to the core 28) relative to theactual contractive force of the elastic members 210 _(w) disposedoutboard (i.e., closer to the waist edge). The difference in forcebetween inboard and outboard elastics may be determined using theTensile Test Method for Force Differential of Waist Gasketing Element asdetailed herein. Nonlimiting examples of ways by which the elastic forcedifferential is created include greater applied strain levels on theinboard elastic member(s), greater decitex of the inboard elasticmember(s), greater diameter of the inboard elastic member(s), differentbase materials between inboard and outboard elastic members (i.e., suchthat an inboard elastic member has a higher Young's modulus orstiffness), more elastic members disposed inboard than outboard, andcloser longitudinal spacing between adjacent elastic members 210 _(w)that are inboard versus elastic members disposed more outboard. In someembodiments, the waist gasket element may have a Force Ratio of at leastabout 1.1, or from about 1.1 to about 1.5, reciting every 0.01 incrementtherein.

In one embodiment shown in FIG. 13A, the elasticized waist region 200_(w) comprises a longitudinal array of waist elastic members 240. In acontracted state (i.e., when the waist gasketing element is not beingstretched), an inner elastic member 242, 243 or 244 is substantiallyequal in lateral width or is shorter (less wide) than the outermostelastic member 241. (FIG. 13A schematically depicts an elasticized waistregion). Stated differently, a primary outboard elastic member 241 maycomprise a primary lateral width, W_(prim), and a secondary inboardelastic member 242 may comprise a secondary lateral width, W_(sec). Saidwidths may be measured by projection against the lateral centerline 110.The primary lateral width, W_(prim), may be greater than or equal to thesecondary lateral width, W_(sec). In this way, the waist region can bemade to remain substantially flat during application of the article 20.

In another embodiment, the array 240 comprises a primary waist elasticmember 241 comprising a primary force, FP, and a secondary waist elasticmember 242 comprising a secondary force, FS. The secondary waist memberis disposed inboard of the primary waist member 241. The secondary FSmay be greater than the primary force FP as determined by the TensileTest Method for Force Differential of Waist Gasketing Element asdetailed herein. In one nonlimiting example, the primary waist elasticmember 241 comprises a primary decitex, DP, and the secondary elasticmember 242 comprises a secondary decitex, DS. The secondary decitex, DS,may be greater than the primary decitex, DP. In another nonlimitingexample, the primary waist elastic member 241 comprises a primarydiameter, dP, and the secondary elastic member 242 comprises a secondarydiameter, dS. The secondary diameter, dS, may be greater than theprimary diameter, dP. In yet another nonlimiting example, the primarywaist elastic member 241 comprises a primary waist elastic strain,ε_(wp), and the secondary elastic member 242 comprises a secondary waistelastic strain, ε_(ws). Strain may be determined in accordance with theStrain Test Method herein. The secondary waist elastic strain, ε_(ws),may be greater than the primary waist elastic strain, ε_(wp). It isbelieved that any of these examples can result in an article 20 havinghigher contractive elastic force on an inboard elastic 242 resulting ingreater contraction of the area immediately surrounding the inboardelastic member 242 than if the elastic members 241, 242 comprised thesame levels of the above-referenced factors.

In still another nonlimiting example, the array 240 may compriseadditional elastic members 210 _(w) including a tertiary elastic member243 disposed inboard of the secondary elastic member 242 and aquaternary elastic member 244 disposed inboard of the tertiary elasticmember 243. The tertiary elastic member 243 may comprise a tertiaryforce FT that may be greater than the primary force FP or greater thanthe secondary force FS. In one nonlimiting example, the tertiary member243 may comprise a tertiary waist strain, ε_(wt), that is greater thanthe secondary waist strain, ε_(ws) and/or greater than the primary waiststrain, ε_(wp). Further, the tertiary member 243 may comprise a tertiarydecitex, DT, that may be greater than the secondary decitex, DS orgreater than the primary decitex, DP. In another nonlimiting example,the tertiary member 243 may comprise a tertiary diameter, dT, that maybe greater than the secondary diameter, dS, or greater than the primarydiameter, dP. The quaternary elastic member 244 may comprise aquaternary force, FQ, that may be greater than the primary force, FP, orgreater than the secondary force, FS, or greater than the tertiaryforce, FT. Further, the quaternary elastic member 244 may comprise aquaternary waist strain, ε_(wq), that may be greater than the primarywaist strain, ε_(wp), or greater than the secondary waist strain,ε_(ws), or greater than the tertiary waist strain, ε_(wt). Thequaternary member 244 may comprise a quaternary decitex, DQ, that may begreater than the primary decitex, DP, or greater than the secondarydecitex, DS, or greater than the tertiary decitex, DT. In anothernonlimiting example, the quaternary member 244 may comprise a quaternarydiameter, dQ, that may be greater than the secondary diameter, dS, orgreater than the primary diameter, dP, or greater than the tertiarydiameter, dT.

In a further embodiment, the primary waist elastic member 241 may bedisposed a minimum longitudinal distance A from the waist edge 13, 14 orfrom outboard edge 83 of the waist gasketing element 81. In onenonlimiting example, the minimum longitudinal distance A is at leastabout 3 mm and the edge comprises a folded edge 15, 89. The secondarywaist elastic member 242 may be disposed a minimum longitudinal distanceB from the primary waist elastic member 241. The tertiary elastic member243 may be disposed a minimum longitudinal distance C from the secondarywaist elastic member 242, and B may be greater than C. In this way, thecontraction inboard is greater than the contraction outboard. Thequaternary elastic member 244 may be disposed a minimum longitudinaldistance D from the tertiary waist elastic member 243, and C may begreater than D.

It is believed that the above embodiments (relating to force, strain,diameter, decitex, spacing) can result in an increase in the contractionof the inboard portion of the elasticized waist region 200 _(w) morethan would be otherwise achieved without making the above-referencedprovisions. All embodiments are contemplated that can increase theability of the inboard portion of the elasticized region 200 to contractat the same or higher level than the outboard portion despite therelative stiffer materials in the inboard portion and the tendency ofthose relatively stiffer materials to resist contraction. Othernonlimiting examples include weakening the materials in or near theinboard portion, using additional materials to increase contractiveforces of the elastic members (such as elasticized nonwovens, films) inthe inboard portion, corrugating materials near or in the inboardportion, removing materials in the inboard portion, and combinationsthereof. All of these embodiments aim to achieve the goal of reducingthe convex curvature toward the waist edge of the article 20, andtherefore allowing the elasticized region to lay flat.

The same principles may be applied to a set of elastic members (i.e.,one or more elastic members, or at least two elastic members) asillustrated in FIG. 13B. In other words, in the contracted state, anoutboard set 241S can comprise substantially the same lateral width or agreater lateral width than an inboard set of elastic members 242S.Likewise, the array 240 may comprise a primary set of elastic members241S having an aggregate primary force ΣFP, defined as the sum of theforce values for each elastic member in the primary set 241S. The array240 may further comprise a secondary set of elastic members 242S havingan aggregate secondary force ΣFS, defined as the sum of the force valuesfor each elastic member in the secondary set 242S. The aggregatesecondary force ΣFS may be greater than the aggregate primary force ΣFPas determined by the Tensile Test Method for Force Differential of WaistGasketing Element herein. In some embodiments, the Force Ratio (asdetermined by the Tensile Test Method for Force Differential) may be atleast about 1.1, or from about 1.1 to about 1.5, reciting every 0.01increment therein. A greater aggregate force may be achieved by having(i) an aggregate secondary elastic strain Σε_(ws) that is greater thanthe aggregate primary elastic strain, (ii) an aggregate secondarydecitex ΣDS that is greater than the aggregate primary decitex, ΣDP,(iii) an aggregate secondary diameter ΣdS that is greater than theaggregate primary diameter ΣdP, (iv) a greater number of secondaryelastic members 242 in the secondary set 242S than primary elasticmembers 241 in the primary set 241S, (v) closer longitudinal spacingbetween adjacent elastic members 242 in the secondary set than thelongitudinal spacing between adjacent primary elastic members 241 in theprimary set 241S and/or (vi) any of the other embodiments taught withreference to primary 241 and secondary 242 elastic members above.

In a further nonlimiting example, the array 240 may include additionalelastic members 210 _(w) including a tertiary set of elastic members243S. The tertiary set 243S may comprise an aggregate tertiary force ΣFTgreater than the aggregate primary force, ΣFP, or greater than theaggregate secondary force, ΣFS. The force differential may be created inaccordance with the teachings herein and other known methods. The forcedifferential may be determined in accordance with the Tensile TestMethod for Force Differential of Waist Gasketing Element herein.

Further, the minimum longitudinal distance between sets may be such thatinboard sets are spaced closer together than outboard sets (i.e., theminimum longitudinal distance between sets being the minimumlongitudinal distance between adjacent elastic members belonging todifferent sets). In one nonlimiting example, the primary set 241S andsecondary set 242S are separated by a minimum longitudinal distance ofB_(s), and the secondary set 242S and tertiary set 243S are separated bya minimum longitudinal distance C_(s). In such example, B_(s) may begreater C_(s). In another nonlimiting example, adjacent elastics 241 a,241 b within the primary set 241S are separated by a primary minimumlongitudinal distance A_(set) and adjacent elastic members 242 a, 242 bwithin the secondary set 242S are separated by a secondary minimumlongitudinal distance B_(set). A_(set) may be greater than B_(set). Inyet another nonlimiting example, the secondary set 242S comprises agreater number of elastic members 210 _(w) than the first set 241S. Theprimary set 241S may comprise n primary elastic members 241, and thesecondary set may comprise at least n+1 secondary elastic members 242.

In another embodiment, the elasticized region 200 _(w) is disposed in awaist gasketing element 81 that comprises a pocket 93 as shown in FIGS.13C and 13D. An array 240 may include a first outboard pocket elasticmember 246 disposed inboard of the outboard lateral edge 83 and having afirst outboard pocket force, FOP. The array may further comprise asecond inboard pocket elastic member 248, disposed inboard of the firstoutboard pocket elastic 246 and having a second inboard pocket forceSIP. The second inboard pocket force, SIP, may be greater than the firstoutboard pocket force FOP. In this way, a greater amount of void volumemay be created. The difference in forces can be determined by theTensile Test Method for Force Differential herein. In one nonlimitingexample, the Force Ratio in a waist element having a pocket 93 asdetermined by the Tensile Test Method for Force Differential herein isat least about 1.1, or from about 1.1 to about 1.5, reciting each 0.01increment therein. In a further nonlimiting example, the first outboardpocket elastic 246 comprises an outboard pocket elastic decitex, DOP,and the second inboard pocket elastic 248 comprises an inboard pocketelastic decitex, DIP. The second inboard pocket elastic decitex, DIP,may be greater than the first outboard pocket elastic decitex, DOP. Inanother nonlimiting example, the first outboard pocket elastic 246comprises an outboard pocket strain, ε_(wop), and the secondary inboardpocket elastic 248 comprises an inboard pocket strain, ε_(wip). Again,strain may be determined by the Strain Test Method herein. The inboardpocket strain, ε_(wip), may be greater than the outboard pocket strain,ε_(wop). As explained in detail above and illustrated in FIG. 13C, thearray 240 w may comprise additional elastic members 210 _(w) which maycomprise differential spacing such that inboard elastic members 210 _(w)are more closely spaced than outboard elastic members. Likewise, anembodiment may include sets of elastics (as depicted in FIG. 13D) thatvary by aggregate force, including but not limited to aggregate strain,aggregate decitex, aggregate diameter, the number of elastic members ina set, longitudinal spacing and/or other nonlimiting examples describedherein. In embodiments where the waist gasketing element 81 comprises apocket 93, it is believed that a higher inboard contraction level cay beachieved via equal inboard and outboard forces because the unattachedportion of the pocket (described above) has less surrounding materialcounteracting the contraction of elastic member(s) 248 disposed closerto the unattached portion. Therefore, under the same actual contractiveforce, the inboard pocket elastic member(s) 248 can contract more thanthe outboard elastic member(s) 246. However, by creating an even higherinboard elastic force using the teachings and embodiments herein, thepocket 93 may comprise greater void volume for the capture andcontainment of exudates.

Turning to FIGS. 14A and 14B, the article 20 may comprise a lateralbending line 206 in a waist region 36, 38. The lateral bending line 206is the lateral line in the article 20 where the article tends to bend inthe waist region 36, 38 once an elasticized waist region 200 _(w) isincluded; the article 20 will bend in a z-direction bending line (a lineperpendicular to the majority of the surface of article 20 andintersects the lateral bending line 206) and/or the article will bendupwards towards the edge 13, 14 of the respective waist region 36, 38.The lateral bending line 206 is determined by finding the lateral linewhere an elastic member 210 _(w) exhibits a change in contraction of atleast 8%. The lateral bending line 206 separates a rigid region 202 anda bendable region 204. In one nonlimiting embodiment, the lateralbending line 206 is coterminous with the lateral edge of the core 28,where the core 28 is disposed in the rigid region 202. An elasticizedwaist region 200 _(w) may be disposed between the waist edge 13, 14 andthe lateral bending line 206 as shown in FIG. 14B.

Alternatively, the elasticized waist region 200 _(w) may overlay by thelateral bending line 206 as shown in FIG. 14A. When elastic members 210_(w) are symmetrically spaced on either side of the bending line 206 andexhibit the same actual contractive force F, the article 20 will tend tobend in a generally convex manner about the bendable region 204. This isbecause the elastic members 210 _(w) in the bendable region 204 cancontract farther before reaching the force equilibrium with thesurrounding materials than in the more rigid region 202 (i.e., the forcehas a greater effect on the less stiff, more bendable materials in thebendable region 204). Stated differently, the elastic members 210 _(w)in the rigid region 202 will be subject to a dampening effect, c, whichdampens said elastic member's actual contractive force. The inventorshave found that adjusting the forces of the waist elastic members 210_(w) will reduce the tendency of the waist gasketing element 81 to bend.The moment of force is defined by the equation:Moment_(i) =r _(i) ×F _(i) c _(i)

-   -   where:    -   moment_(i) is the moment of force for a waist elastic member 210        _(i);    -   c_(i) is the dampening effect on actual contractive force of        waist elastic member 210 i;    -   r_(i) is the perpendicular distance between F_(i) and the        bending line 206; and    -   F_(i) is the actual contractive force of the waist elastic        member 210 i.

The skilled person will recognize that elastic members 210 w disposed ina rigid region 202 will exhibit a dampening coefficient, c, of lessthan 1. The actual value of the dampening coefficient can be empiricallydetermined by the skilled person. Likewise, the skilled person willrecognize that elastic members 210 _(w) disposed in a bendable region204 will exhibit a dampening coefficient, c, that is equal to 1 (i.e.,there is no dampening effect). Further, the skilled person willrecognize that in the context of disposable absorbent articles, changesin force will have more of an effect on the moment than changes inradius. This is because the area within the elasticized region 200 _(w)is generally limited and only permits small changes in radius.

The aggregate moment of force is the sum of the moments of force for theindividual elastic members in a given area (e.g., outboard of the line206, inboard of the line 206). In some embodiments, the aggregate momentof force of elastic members in a given portion of the elasticized regionmay be greater than aggregate moment of elastic members in anotherportion in order to compensate for the effect of surrounding materialson the elastic members' contractive forces. Said differently, when theinboard and outboard portions of an elasticized region 200 _(w) contractthe same amount, the summation of both the contractive forces and thecompression resisting forces (in the material) in the outboard portionshould counterbalance the summation of both the contractive forces andthe compression resisting forces in the inboard portion (i.e., the sumsshould zero out). Adjusting the aggregate moments of force may achievethis state.

In one nonlimiting example, where the elasticized region 200 _(w) isdisposed between the bending line and the waist edge as shown in FIG.14B, the tendency to bend is reduced or eliminated by ensuring that theaggregate moment of force of waist elastic members 256 closer to thebending line 206 is greater than the aggregate moment of force of waistelastic members 254 closer to the waist edge in the region in which theelasticized region is disposed (i.e., the first waist edge 13 if theelasticized region is disposed in the first waist region 36, the secondwaist edge 14 if the elasticized region is in the second waist region38). A greater aggregate moment of force may be achieved by a greateraggregate force and/or a greater aggregate radius. As taught above, theaggregate force ΣFaxis of the inboard elastic members 256 closer to thebending line 206 may be greater than the aggregate force ΣFedge ofelastic members closer to the waist edge by (i) a greater aggregateinboard strain than aggregate outboard strain, (ii) a greater aggregateinboard decitex than aggregate outboard decitex, (iii) a greateraggregate inboard diameter than aggregate outboard diameter, (iv) agreater number of elastic members 210 _(w) in the inboard set 256 thanin the outboard set 254, (iv) closer longitudinal spacing betweenadjacent inboard elastic members 256 than the longitudinal spacingbetween adjacent outboard elastic members 254, and/or (v) any othernonlimiting examples disclosed herein. Differences in force may bedetermined by the Tensile Test Method for Force Differential herein. Insome embodiments, the Force Ratio created by inboard elastic members andoutboard elastic members is at least about 1.1, or from about 1.1 toabout 1.5, reciting each 0.01 increment therein.

In another nonlimiting example, where the elasticized region 200 _(w)overlays the bending line 206 as shown in FIG. 14A, the tendency to bendis reduced or eliminated by ensuring the aggregate moment of force,ΣM_(in), of the waist elastic members 252 disposed inboard of thebending line 206 is greater than the aggregate moment of force,ΣM_(out), of the waist elastic members 250 disposed outboard of thebending line 206.

In a further nonlimiting example, a primary outboard set of waistelastic members 250 is disposed outboard of the bending line 206. Theprimary outboard set of waist elastic members 250 comprises one or moreelastic members 210 _(w), or at least two elastic members 210 _(w),disposed between the waist edge and the bending line 206. The primaryset of outboard waist elastic members 250 comprises a primary aggregatemoment of force ΣMP, which is the sum of the moments of force for eachelastic member 210 _(w) in the set 250. The elasticized region 200 _(w)may further comprise a secondary inboard set of elastic members 252disposed inboard of the bending line 206. Where the elasticized region200 _(w) is disposed in a waist gasketing element 81, the secondaryinboard set of waist elastic members 252 is disposed between the bendingline 206 and the inboard lateral edge 82 of the element 81. Thesecondary set of inboard waist elastic members 252 comprises one or moreelastic members 210 w, or at least two elastic members 210 _(w). Thesecondary inboard set of elastic members 252 also comprises a secondaryaggregate moment of force ΣMs, which is the sum of the moments of forcefor each elastic member in the secondary inboard set 252. The secondaryaggregate moment of force ΣMs may be greater than the aggregate primarymoment of force, ΣMp. A greater aggregate moment of force may beachieved by a greater aggregate force and/or a greater aggregate radius.As taught above, the aggregate force ΣFin of the secondary set ofinboard elastic members 252 may be greater than the aggregate primaryoutboard force ΣFout by (i) a greater aggregate secondary inboard strainΣε_(inw) than aggregate primary outboard strain Σε_(outw), (ii) agreater aggregate secondary decitex, ΣDin, than aggregate primaryoutboard decitex, ΣDout, (iii) a greater aggregate secondary diameter,Σdin, than aggregate primary outboard diameter, Σdout, (iv) a greaternumber of elastic members 210 _(w) in the second inboard set 252 than inthe primary outboard set 250, (iv) closer longitudinal spacing betweenadjacent secondary inboard elastic members 252 than the longitudinalspacing between adjacent primary outboard elastic members 250, and/or(v) any other nonlimiting examples disclosed herein. Differences inforce may be determined by the Tensile Test Method for ForceDifferential herein. In some embodiments, the Force Ratio created byinboard elastic members and outboard elastic members is at least about1.1, or from about 1.1 to about 1.5, reciting each 0.01 incrementtherein.

In an embodiment, the waist gasketing element 81 may comprise N-fiber.

Opacity Strengthening Patch

In some embodiments of the disposable absorbent articles detailedherein, an opacity strengthening patch 80 may be included as part of thechassis 22. The opacity strengthening patch 80 is an additional layer ofmaterial. The opacity strengthening patch 80 may be connected to the leggasketing system 70, the polymeric film layer 261, and/or the backsheet26. The opacity strengthening patch 80 may be disposed between thebacksheet 26 and leg gasketing system 70 in either the first waistregion 36, the second waist region 38, or both the first waist region 36and the second waist region 38 of the article; the opacity strengtheningpatch 80 may overlap at least one of the leg gasketing system 70 and/orthe polymeric film layer 261 (i.e., inner layer of the backsheet 26).The opacity strengthening patch 80 may be attached to one or both of theleg gasketing system 70 or the polymer film layer using any suitablemeans such as glue, mechanical bonds, thermal bonds, or the like, sothat loads generated during the application process or during wear canbe transferred from the lateral edge of the article to the leg gasketingsystem 70 and/or the polymeric film layer. The opacity strengtheningpatch is useful in providing the strength needed to prevent the articlefrom extending excessively during application and wearing; it also mayprovide opacity at the sides and waist to prevent the skin of the userfrom showing through the article. Thus, the patch 80 may be located atany portion of the chassis 22 where strength and opacity is desirable.Materials suitable to act as the opacity strengthening patch includematerials having a basis weight of at least about 10 gsm, at least about15 gsm, at least about 25 gsm. An opacity strengthening patch usefulherein may exhibit the following tensile properties in the crossdirection: at 2% engineering strain for a 1 inch wide sample, 0.4N; at5% engineering strain for a 1 inch wide sample, 1.25N; at 10%engineering strain for a 1 inch wide sample, 2.5N. One opacitystrengthening patch useful herein is available from Pegas, Znojmo, CZ,as supplier number 803968.

In one embodiment, the opacity strengthening patch 80 is discrete and islocated in the front and back waist regions of the article. In oneembodiment, the opacity strengthening patch is about 70 mm long in thefront, optionally about 90 mm long in the front; optionally about 120 mmlong in the front. In one embodiment, the opacity strengthening patch isabout 70 mm long in the back, optionally about 100 mm long in the back,optionally about 140 mm long in the back. In one embodiment, the opacitystrengthening patch is continuous and spans the entire length of theproduct.

In one embodiment, the opacity strengthening patch has a hunter coloropacity of greater than about 15%, optionally greater than about 25%,optionally greater than about 40%, optionally greater than 60%.

In one embodiment the opacity strengthening patch is laterally outboardof the polymeric film layer. In one embodiment, the opacitystrengthening patch overlaps the polymeric film layer in the lateraldirection such that it can be affixed to the polymeric film in order totransmit laterally directed application and wearing forces from theopacity strengthening patch to the polymeric film layer. Any suitablebonding means known in the art may be used to affix the opacitystrengthening patch to the polymeric film layer. In one embodiment, theopacity strengthening patch overlaps the polymeric film layer by about 5mm, optionally about 10 mm, optionally about 15 mm, optionally about 20mm, optionally less than about 30 mm.

In one embodiment, there is a lateral gap between the opacitystrengthening patch and the polymeric film layer and the opacitystrengthening patch is affixed by any suitable bonding means to the leggasketing system, and the leg gasketing system is affixed to thepolymeric film layer by any suitable bonding means such that applicationand wearing loads can transmit from the opacity strengthening patch tothe gasketing system and then from the gasketing system to the polymericfilm layer. In this embodiment, the gap is preferably less than 30 mm,more preferably less than 20 mm, more preferably less than 10 mm.

In one embodiment, there is a lateral gap between the opacitystrengthening patch and the polymeric film layer; the opacitystrengthening patch may be affixed by any suitable bonding means to theleg gasketing system and the body facing and garment facing sides of theleg gasketing system may be affixed together by any suitable bondingmeans so that the loads from the opacity strengthening patch are sharedby both layers of the leg gasketing system. The leg gasketing system maybe affixed to the polymeric film layer by any suitable bonding meanssuch that application and wearing loads can transmit from the opacitystrengthening patch to the leg gasketing system and then from the leggasketing system to the polymeric film layer.

In one embodiment, the opacity strengthening patch overlaps the leggasketing system in the lateral direction such that it can be affixedsecurely to the opacity strengthening patch layer by any suitablebonding means as a way to transmit application and wearing forces fromthe opacity strengthening patch to the leg gasketing system. In thisembodiment, the opacity strengthening patch may overlap the leggasketing system by about 5 mm, optionally about 10 mm, optionally lessthan about 15 mm, optionally less than about 25 mm.

In one embodiment the leg gasketing system has about the same lateraltensile strength properties as the opacity strengthening patch. In oneembodiment the combined properties of the leg gasketing system and thebacksheet nonwoven outer cover has about the same lateral tensilestrength as the opacity strengthening patch. In another embodiment theoutercover nonwoven has very low lateral strength between about 0% andabout 10% engineering strain. In one embodiment, the outercover nonwovenmay exhibit the following tensile properties: at 10% engineering strainfor a 1 inch wide sample, 0.4N.

Construction Materials

It is recognized that there are many combinations of material lateraltensile properties that could form a substantially suitable forcetransmission pathway in the waist region or the article withoutexcessive lateral stretch in the waist region, and that the materialforce pathways may go from the opacity strengthening patch directly intothe polymeric film layer or into the polymeric film layer through avariety of other layers in the region immediately outboard the polymericfilm layer. These layers may include the topsheet, backsheet nonwoven,cuff, absorbent assembly, leg gasketing system, or any other layer thatis located in a region adjacent to the polymeric film layer.

In one embodiment, the material of the leg gasketing system 70 is madefrom a substantially liquid impervious material. The material may beselected from the group consisting of an SMS nonwoven, SMMS nonwovenmaterial, or a nonwoven component layer comprising “N-fibers”.

Various nonwoven fabric webs may comprise spunbond, meltblown, spunbond(“SMS”) webs comprising outer layers of spunbond thermoplastics (e.g.,polyolefins) and an interior layer of meltblown thermoplastics. In oneembodiment of the present invention, the leg gasketing system 70comprises a nonwoven component layer having fine fibers (“N-fibers”)with an average diameter of less than 1 micron (an “N-fiber layer”) maybe added to, or otherwise incorporated with, other nonwoven componentlayers to form a nonwoven web of material. In some embodiments, theN-fiber layer may be used to produce a SNS nonwoven web or SMNS nonwovenweb, for example.

The leg gasketing cuff 70 may comprise a first nonwoven component layercomprising fibers having an average diameter in the range of about 8microns to about 30 microns, a second nonwoven component layercomprising fibers having a number-average diameter of less than about 1micron, a mass-average diameter of less than about 1.5 microns, and aratio of the mass-average diameter to the number-average diameter lessthan about 2, and a third nonwoven component layer comprising fibershaving an average diameter in the range of about 8 microns to about 30microns. The second nonwoven component layer is disposed intermediatethe first nonwoven component layer and the third nonwoven componentlayer.

The N-fibers may be comprised of a polymer, e.g., selected frompolyesters, including PET and PBT, polylactic acid (PLA), alkyds,polyolefins, including polypropylene (PP), polyethylene (PE), andpolybutylene (PB), olefinic copolymers from ethylene and propylene,elastomeric polymers including thermoplastic polyurethanes (TPU) andstyrenic block-copolymers (linear and radial di- and tri-blockcopolymers such as various types of Kraton), polystyrenes, polyamides,PHA (polyhydroxyalkanoates) and e.g. PHB (polyhydroxubutyrate), andstarch-based compositions including thermoplastic starch, for example.The above polymers may be used as homopolymers, copolymers, e.g.,copolymers of ethylene and propylene, blends, and alloys thereof. TheN-fiber layer may be bonded to the other nonwoven component layers byany suitable bonding technique, such as the calender bond process, forexample, also called thermal point bonding.

In some embodiments, the use of an N-fiber layer in a nonwoven web mayprovide a low surface tension barrier that is as high as other nonwovenwebs that have been treated with a hydrophobic coating or a hydrophobicmelt-additive, and still maintain a low basis weight (e.g., less than 15gsm or, alternatively, less than 13 gsm). The use of the N-fiber layermay also provide a soft and breathable (i.e., air permeable) nonwovenmaterial that, at least in some embodiments, may be used in single weblayer configurations in applications which previously used double weblayer configurations. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the use of theN-fiber layer may at least reduce the undesirable migration ofhydrophilic surfactants toward the web and, therefore, may ultimatelyresult in better leak protection for an associated absorbent article.Also, when compared to an SMS web having a similar basis weight, the useof a nonwoven web comprising the N-fiber layer may decrease the numberof defects (i.e., holes or pinholes through the mechanical bond site)created during the mechanical bonding process. N-fibers are furtherdiscussed in WO 2005/095700 and U.S. patent application Ser. No.13/024,844.

In one embodiment, the inner cuff 72 web of material has a hydrostatichead of greater than about 2 mbar, greater than about 3 mbar, greaterthan about 4 mbar. In one embodiment, the outer cuff 76 web of materialhas a hydrostatic head of less than about 200 mbar, less than about 100mbar, less than about 75 mbar, less than about 50 mbar, less than about25 mbar, less than about 15 mbar.

In one embodiment, the folded outer cuff web of material has a basisweight of 10 gsm; optionally 13 gsm; optionally 15 gsm; optionally 18gsm.

In one embodiment, the inner cuff 72 web of material has an opacity offrom about 15% to about 50% hunter opacity; optionally from about 20% toabout 45% hunter opacity. In one embodiment, the outer cuff 76 web ofmaterial has an opacity of from about 45% to about 75% hunter opacity;optionally from about 50% to about 70% hunter opacity; optionally lessthan about 75% hunter opacity; optionally less than about 70% hunteropacity.

In one embodiment, the inner cuff 72 web of material has an airpermeability of less than about 50 m³/m²/min; optionally less than about45 m³/m²/min. In one embodiment, the outer cuff 76 web of material hasan air permeability of greater than about 5 m³/m²/min; optionallygreater than about 10 m³/m²/min; optionally greater than about 15m³/m²/min; optionally greater than about 20 m³/m²/min.

In one embodiment, the inner cuff 72 web of material has a WVTR of lessthan about 5500 g/m²/24 hrs; optionally less than about 5400 g/m²/24hrs. In one embodiment, the outer cuff 76 web of material has a WVTR ofgreater than about 4250 g/m²/24 hrs; optionally greater than about 4500g/m²/24 hrs; optionally greater than about 5000 g/m²/24 hrs; optionallygreater than about 5250 g/m²/24 hrs; optionally greater than about 5500g/m²/24 hrs.

The gasketing cuffs 70 may be substantially inelastic or may beelastically extensible to dynamically fit at the wearer's leg. Thegasketing cuff 70 may be formed by one or more elastic members 210 (suchas elastic strands) operatively joined to the topsheet 24, backsheet 26,or any other suitable substrate used in the formation of the absorbentarticle 20. Suitable gasketing cuff construction is further described inU.S. Pat. No. 3,860,003.

The inner cuff 72 may span the entire longitudinal length of theabsorbent article 20. The inner cuff 72 may be formed by a flap and anelastic member 78 (such as elastic strands). The inner cuff 72 may be acontinuous extension of any of the existing materials or elements thatform the absorbent article 20.

The inner cuff 72 may comprise a variety of substrates such as plasticfilms and woven or nonwoven webs of natural fibers (e.g., wood or cottonfibers), synthetic fibers (e.g., polyester or polypropylene fibers), ora combination of natural and synthetic fibers. In certain embodiments,the flap may comprise a nonwoven web such as spunbond webs, meltblownwebs, carded webs, and combinations thereof (e.g., spunbond-meltblowncomposites and variants). Laminates of the aforementioned substrates mayalso be used to form the flap. A particularly suitable flap may comprisea nonwoven available from BBA Fiberweb, Brentwood, TN as supplier code30926. A particularly suitable elastic member is available from Invista,Wichita, KS as supplier code T262P. Further description of diapershaving inner cuffs and suitable construction of such cuffs may be foundin U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,808,178 and 4,909,803. The elastic member 210 mayspan the longitudinal length of the inner cuff 72. In other embodiments,the elastic member 210 may span at least the longitudinal length of theinner cuff 72 within the crotch region 37. It is desirable that theelastic member 210 exhibits sufficient elasticity such that the innercuff 72 remains in contact with the wearer during normal wear, therebyenhancing the barrier properties of the inner cuff 72. The elasticmember 210 may be connected to the flap at opposing longitudinal ends.In certain embodiments, the flap may be folded over onto itself so as toencircle the elastic member 210.

The inner cuff 72 and/or outer cuff 76 may be treated, in full or inpart, with a lotion, as described above with regard to topsheets, or maybe fully or partially coated with a hydrophobic surface coating asdetailed in U.S. application Ser. No. 11/055,743, which was filed Feb.10, 2005. Hydrophobic surface coatings usefully herein may include anonaqueous, solventless, multicomponent silicone composition. Thesilicone composition includes at least one silicone polymer and issubstantially free of aminosilicones. A particularly suitablehydrophobic surface coating is available from Dow Corning MI, Salzburgas supplier code 0010024820.

EXAMPLES

Air 32 dyne Opacity Permeability WVTR Hydrohead Strikethrough %m³/m²/min g/m²/24 hrs mbar Sec Outer Inner Outer Inner Outer Inner OuterInner Outer Inner Product Lot No. Cuff Cuff Cuff Cuff Cuff Cuff CuffCuff Cuff Cuff Prototype NA 58.7 ± 37.6 ± 26.8 ± 36.9 ± 5905 ± 5224 ±16.8 ± 12.3 ± 21.0± 9.2 ± N-Fiber 2.2 3.2 5.6 4.6 129 87 2.1 1.3 3.5 1.5Prototype NA 65.8 ± 39.0 ± 65.6 ± 38.5 ± 5748 ± 5193 ± 16.3 ± 10.0 ±15.6 ± 7.6 ± SMS 1.8 1.0 11.5 3.8 276 145 1.8 1.7 1.9 1.4 Pampers0089U011390422 80.1 ± 38.8 ± 2.1 ± 56.1 ± 4063 ± 5252 ± >200 6.7 ± >10010.1 ± BabyDry 0.4 3.8 1.0 6.3 67 157 0.8 0.5 Luvs 1047U011390518 85.3 ±36.4 ± 3.1 ± 90.2 ± 304 ± 5244 ± >200 6.5 ± >100 11.8 ± 1.2 3.4 1.9 9.3144 26 1.0 1.4 Huggies BI006912B 80.1 ± 45.4 ± 2.6 ± 45.0 ± 3673 ± 5581± >200 8.3 ± >100 14.3 ± Little 1.0 4.2 0.4 15.7 190 90 1.3 3.5 MoversHuggies NM1275U1F0755 72.7 ± 53.6 ± 4.4 ± 145.2 ± 375 ± 5688 ± >200 9.2± >100 14.6 ± Supreme 2.2 2.3 1.1 23.2 77 85 1.8 3.1 * Results areexpressed as the average ± one standard deviation * Prototype N-Fiber isa 13 gsm SMNS available from Polymer Group Inc * Prototype SMS is a 15gsm SMS (Spunbonded-Meltblown-Spunbonded) nonwoven available fromFibertex under the Comfort Line

Package

Turning to FIG. 15 , a disposable absorbent article 20 having any of theabove-disclosed features may be provided in a package 1000 comprisingabout 5 or more articles 20, or about 8 or more, or about 10 or morearticles 20.

Combination of Embodiments

While embodiments are described separately herein for brevity andclarity, combinations of the various embodiments are contemplated andwithin the scope of the present disclosure. For example, the combinationof differently joined and different strained elastic members, where theoutermost elastic member comprises an unattached span between twoattachment intervals and is disposed at least 3 mm from the edge, wouldresult in an enhancement of various benefits described herein.

Test Methods Strain Test Method

Strain is measured individually for each elastic member in a waistgasketing element. Linear measurements are made with a steel rulertraceable to NIST or similar standards organization. All testing isperformed in a room controlled at 23° C.±3° C. and 50%±2% relativehumidity.

Open the article and place it, backsheet down, on a lab bench. Identifythe waist gasketing element and carefully remove from the article in anon-destructive manner. For example, a minimal amount of cryogenic spraycan be applied through the outermost layer of the article to remove thewaist gasketing element. Cut two longitudinal lines perpendicular to thewaist element lateral edge immediately inboard of the shortest elasticmember for both the left and right side of the waist element.

Cut the specimen in the lateral direction, midway between each elasticmember, to isolate the individual elastic members within the waistgasketing element. Carefully label each strip to denote its position inthe original waist gasketing element (e.g. top to bottom, position 1through position n).

Submerge a specimen strip in an appropriate solvent, such astetrahydrofuran, that will dissolve the adhesives but not the nonwovensor elastic member. After the components have separated, remove eachcomponent from the solvent and place on a flat bench within a ventilatedhood to allow the solvent to dry. Arrange the elastic member on thebench in a substantially linear configuration in a relaxed state andmeasure and record its length to the nearest 0.1 mm. Likewise, arrangethe nonwoven strip flat on the bench, extended to its full dimensionwithout stretching and measure the length to the nearest 0.1 mm. If theelastic member is sandwiched between two nonwovens, measure the lengthof both nonwoven strips and report the nonwoven length as their averageto the nearest 0.1 mm. Calculate the Elastic Member Strain as the[Nonwoven Length (mm)−Elastic Member Length (mm)]/Elastic Member Length(mm)×100 and report to the nearest 0.1%. Repeat for each strip isolatedfrom that waist gasketing element.

The measure is performed for a total of five replicate waist gasketingelements. An average Elastic Member Strain is then calculated for eachposition (1 through n) and reported to the nearest 0.1%.

Tensile Test Method for Force Differential of Waist Gasketing Element

The tensile properties of an elasticized sample are measured on aconstant rate of extension tensile tester with computer interface (asuitable instrument is the MTS Alliance using Testworks 4.0 Software, asavailable from MTS Systems Corp., Eden Prairie, MN) using a load cellfor which the forces measured are within 10% to 90% of the limit of thecell. The load cell is calibrated per the vendor instructions prior totesting. Both the movable (upper) and stationary (lower) pneumatic jawsare fitted with rubber faced grips that are 15 mm wide by 8 mm tall.Linear measurements are made with a steel ruler traceable to NIST orsimilar standards organization. All testing is performed in a roomcontrolled at 23° C.±3° C. and 50%±2% relative humidity.

Open the article and place it, backsheet down, on a lab bench. Identifythe Outboard Lateral Edge and Inboard Lateral Edge of the waistgasketing element. Mark the chassis at the four corners of the waistgasketing element. Carefully remove the waist gasketing element from thearticle in a non-destructive manner. For example, a minimal amount ofcryogenic spray can be applied through the outermost layer of thearticle to remove the waist gasketing element. Mark the waist gasketingelement at both of its longitudinal edges 7.5 mm up from the InboardLateral Edge and 7.5 mm down from the Outboard Lateral Edge. Repeat forboth the left and right longitudinal edges. After the waist gasketingelements have been removed from the article, they are conditioned at 23°C.±3° C. and 50%±2% relative humidity two hours prior to testing. Inlike fashion, prepare three waist gasketing elements from threereplicate articles.

Fully extend the back region of the chassis where the waist gasketingelement was removed and secure to the bench. Measure the distancebetween the marks on the chassis corresponding to the Outboard LateralEdge (OBLE extension) and then the distance corresponding to the InboardLateral Edge position (IBLE extension) and record to the nearest 0.1 mm.Subtract 16.0 mm from the OBLE extension to give the Final OBLEextension. Likewise subtract 16.0 mm from the IBLE extension to give theFinal IBLE extension.

Take the waist gasketing element and measure the lateral width at themarks closest to the Outboard Lateral Edge (OBLE gage) and the lateralwidth at the marks closest to the Inboard Lateral Edge (IBLE gage) andrecord both to the nearest 0.1 mm. Subtract 16.0 mm from the OBLE gageto give the Final OBLE gage. Likewise subtract 16.0 mm from the IBLEgage to give the Final IBLE gage.

Program the tensile tester to perform an extension test. From theoriginal gage move the crosshead at 100 mm/min to the final extensionendpoint and then return the crosshead to its original position. Forceand extension data are collected at a rate of 100 Hz. The gage lengthand extension endpoint are entered manually for each specimen and testlocation.

Set the gage length between grip faces to the Final OBLE Gage and zerothe crosshead. Set the final extension equal to the Final OBLE Extension(mm). Insert the specimen into the upper grips, aligning it verticallywithin the upper and lower jaws. Align the top of the grip face flushwith the left longitudinal edge of the specimen and centered at the markproximal to the Outboard Lateral Edge. Close the upper grips. Insert thespecimen into the lower grips with the grip face centered at the markproximal to the Outboard Lateral Edge and close. The specimen should beunder enough tension to eliminate any slack, but less than 0.05 N offorce on the load cell. Start the test and collect force and extensiondata. Remove the specimen and allow to condition for 15 minutes. In likefashion repeat the tensile experiment for the Inboard Lateral Edge usingthe Final IBLE Gage length and Final IBLE Extension. The analysis isrepeated in like fashion for a total of 3 replicate waist gasketingelement specimens.

From the paired force (N) vs extension (mm) curves, record the force atthe Final OBLE Extension (N) and Final IBLE Extension (N) to the nearest0.001 N. Calculate the Force Ratio as Force at Final IBLE Extensiondivided by Force at Final OBLE Extension for each of the 3 replicatespecimens and report the arithmetic mean to the nearest 0.001.

Opacity Method

Opacity is measured using a 0° illumination/45° detection,circumferential optical geometry, spectrophotometer with a computerinterface such as the HunterLab LabScan XE running Universal Software(available from Hunter Associates Laboratory Inc., Reston, VA) orequivalent instrument. Instrument calibration and measurements are madeusing the standard white and black calibration plates provided by thevendor. All testing is performed in a room maintained at 23±2° C. and50±2% relative humidity.

The spectrophotometer is conFIG.d for the XYZ color scale, D65illuminant, 10° standard observer, with UV filter set to nominal. Theinstrument is standardized according to the manufacturer's proceduresusing the 0.7 inch port size and 0.5 inch area view. After calibration,the software is set to the Y opacity procedure which prompts theoperator to cover the sample with either the white or black calibrationtile during the measurement.

Articles are pre-conditioned at 23° C.±2° C. and 50%±2% relativehumidity for two hours prior to testing. To obtain a specimen, thearticle is stretched flat on a bench, body facing surface upward, andthe total longitudinal length of the article is measured. A testing siteon the inner and outer cuffs is selected at the longitudinal midpoint ofthe article. Using scissors, a test specimen is cut 60 mm long by theentire height of the inner cuff centered at the longitudinal midpoint ofthe left cuff. Next, a second test specimen is cut, this time from theouter cuff, 60 mm long by the entire height of the outer cuff, centeredat the longitudinal midpoint of the left outer cuff. In like fashion,inner and outer cuff specimens are prepared from the cuffs on the rightside of the article.

The specimen is placed over the measurement port. The specimen shouldcompletely cover the port with the surface corresponding to theinner-facing surface of the cuff directed toward the port. The specimenis gently extended until taut in its longitudinal direction so that thecuff lies flat against the port plate. Adhesive tape is applied tosecure the cuff to the port plate in its extended state for testing.Tape should not cover any portion of the measurement port. The specimenis then covered with the white standard plate. A reading is taken, thenthe white tile is removed and replaced with the black standard tilewithout moving the specimen. A second reading is taken, and the opacityis calculated as follows:Opacity=(Y value_((black backing)) /Y value_((white backing)))×100

Specimens from five identical articles (10 inner cuff (5 left and 5right) and 10 outer cuff (5 left and 5 right)) are analyzed and theiropacity results recorded. The average opacity for the inner cuffs andthe outer cuffs are calculated and report separately, each to thenearest 0.01%.

Water Vapor Transmission Rate Method

Water Vapor Transmission Rate (WVTR) is measured using the wet cupapproach. A cylindrical cup is filled with water, maintaining a constantheadspace between the water surface and a specimen sealed over the cup'supper opening. The vapor loss is measured gravimetrically after heatingthe assembled cup for a specified time in an oven. All testing isperformed in a room maintained at 23° C.±2° C. and 50%±2% relativehumidity.

Articles are preconditioned at 23° C.±2° C. and 50%±2% relative humidityfor two hours prior to testing. The article stretched flat on a bench,body facing surface upward, and the total longitudinal length of thearticle is measured. A testing site on the inner and outer cuffs isselected at the longitudinal midpoint of the article. Using scissors, atest specimen is cut 60 mm long by the entire height of the inner cuffcentered at the longitudinal midpoint of the left cuff. Next, a secondtest specimen is cut, this time from the outer cuff, 60 mm long by theentire height of the outer cuff, centered at the longitudinal midpointof the left outer cuff. In like fashion, inner and outer cuff specimensfrom the cuffs on the right side of the article are prepared.

Glass straight walled, cylindrical vials, 95 mm tall with a 17.8 mminternal diameter at the opening are used as WVTR test vials. Each testvial is filled with distilled water accurately to a level 25.0 mm±0.1 mmfrom the upper lip of the vial's opening. The specimen is placed,inner-facing surface of the cuff downward, over the vial's opening. Thespecimen is gently pulled taut and secured around the vial'scircumference with an elastic band. The specimen is further sealed bywrapping Teflon tape around the vial's circumference. A preferred Teflontape is a thread sealant tape 0.25″ wide available from McMaster Can(cat. No. 4591K11) or equivalent. The Teflon tape is applied up to thetop edge of the vial but should not cover any portion of the vial'sopening. The mass of the vial assembly (vial+specimen+sealing tape) isweighed to the nearest 0.0001 gram. This is the starting mass.

The vial assemblies are placed upright in a mechanical convection oven(e.g. Lindberg/BlueM oven available from ThermoScientific or equivalent)maintained at 38±1° C. for 24 hours, taking care to avoid contactbetween the water in the vials and the specimens. After 24 hours haselapsed, the vial assemblies are removed from the oven and allowed tocome to room temperature. The mass of each vial assembly is measured tothe nearest 0.0001 gram. This is the final mass.

The WVTR is calculated using the following equation:WVTR (g/m²/24 hrs)=([starting mass (g)−final mass (g)]/surface area(m²))/24 hrs

Specimens from five identical articles (10 inner cuff (5 left and 5right) and 10 outer cuff (5 left and 5 right)) are analyzed and theirWVTR results recorded. The average WVTR for the inner cuffs and theouter cuffs are each reported separately to the nearest 1 g/m²/24 hrs.

Air Permeability Test

Air permeability is tested using a TexTest FX3300 Air PermeabilityTester (available from Advanced Testing Instruments, Greer, SC) with acustom made 1 cm² circular aperture (also available from AdvancedTesting Instruments) or equivalent instrument. The instrument iscalibrated according to the manufacturer's procedures. All testing isperformed in a room maintained at 23° C.±2° C. and 50%±2% relativehumidity.

The articles are pre-conditioned at 23° C.±2° C. and 50%±2% relativehumidity for two hours prior to testing. To obtain a specimen, thearticle is stretched flat on a bench, body facing surface upward, andthe total longitudinal length of the article is measured. A testing siteon the inner and outer cuffs is selected at the longitudinal midpoint ofthe article. Using scissors, a test specimen is cut 60 mm long by theentire height of the inner cuff centered at the longitudinal midpoint ofthe left cuff. Next, a second test specimen is cut, this time from theouter cuff, 60 mm long by the entire height of the outer cuff, centeredat the longitudinal midpoint of the left outer cuff. In like fashion,inner and outer cuff specimens are prepared from the cuffs on the rightside of the article.

The specimen is centered over the measurement port. The specimen shouldcompletely cover the port with the surface corresponding to theinward-facing surface of the cuff directed toward the port. The specimenis gently extended in its longitudinal direction until taut so that thecuff lies flat across the port. Adhesive tape is applied to secure thecuff across the port in its extended state for testing. Tape should notcover any portion of the measurement port. The test pressure is set toallow air to pass through the specimen. For non-woven cuffs the pressureis typically set for 125 Pa and for cuffs containing films typically2125 Pa is used. The sample ring is closed and the measuring range isadjusted until the range indicator shows green to indicate that themeasurement is within the accepted limits of the instrument. The airpermeability is recorded to the nearest 0.1 m³/m²/min.

Hydrostatic Head Test

Hydrostatic head is tested using a TexTest FX3000 Hydrostatic HeadTester (available from Advanced Testing Instruments, Greer, SC) with acustom made 1.5 cm² circular measurement port (also available fromAdvanced Testing Instruments). Two annular sleeve rings, the samedimensions as the gaskets around the measurement ports, are cut from thestandard protective sleeves for fine nonwovens (part FX3000-NWH,available from Advanced Testing Instruments). The sleeve rings are thenadhered with two-sided adhesive tape to the sample facing surfaces ofthe upper and lower gaskets of the TexTest instrument to protect thespecimen during clamping. Standardize the instrument according to themanufacturer's procedures. All testing is performed in a room maintainedat about 23° C.±2° C. and about 50%±2% relative humidity.

Precondition the articles at about 23° C.±2° C. and about 50%±2%relative humidity for two hours prior to testing. To obtain a specimen,lay the article stretched flat on a bench, body facing surface upward,and measure the total longitudinal length of the article. Select atesting site on the inner and outer cuffs, at the longitudinal midpointof the article. Using scissors cut a test specimen 70 mm long by theentire height of the inner cuff centered at the longitudinal midpoint ofthe left cuff. Next cut a second test specimen, this time from the outercuff, 70 mm long by the entire height of the outer cuff, centered at thelongitudinal midpoint of the left outer cuff. In like fashion, prepareinner and outer cuff specimens from the cuffs on the right side of thearticle.

Place the specimen centered over the port of the upper test head. Thespecimen should completely cover the port with the surface correspondingto the outward-facing surface of the cuff directed toward the port(inner-facing surface will then be facing the water). Gently extend thespecimen taut in its longitudinal direction so that the cuff lies flatagainst the upper test plate. Adhesive tape is applied to secure thecuff to the test plate in its extended state for testing. Tape shouldnot cover any portion of the measurement port.

Fill the TexTest syringe with distilled water, adding the water throughthe measurement port of the lower test plate. The water level should befilled to the top of the lower gasket. Mount the upper test head ontothe instrument and lower the test head to make a seal around thespecimen. The test speed is set to 3 mbar/min for samples that have ahydrostatic head of 50 mbar or less and a speed of 60 mbar/min forsamples with a hydrostatic head above 50 mbar. Start the test andobserve the specimen surface to detect water droplets penetrating thesurface. The test is terminated when one drop is detected on the surfaceof the specimen or the pressure exceeds 200 mbar. Record the pressure tothe nearest 0.5 mbar or record as >200 mbar if there was no penetrationdetected.

A total of five identical articles (10 inner cuff and 10 outer cuffspecimens) are analyzed and their hydrostatic head results recorded.Calculate and report the average hydrostatic head for the inner cuffsand the outer cuffs and report each to the nearest 0.1 mbar.

Low Surface Tension Fluid Strikethrough Time Test

The low surface tension fluid strikethrough time test is used todetermine the amount of time it takes a specified quantity of a lowsurface tension fluid, discharged at a prescribed rate, to fullypenetrate a sample of a web (and other comparable barrier materials)which is placed on a reference absorbent pad.

For this test, the reference absorbent pad is 5 plies of Ahlstrom grade989 filter paper (10 cm×10 cm) and the test fluid is a 32 mN/m lowsurface tension fluid.

This test is designed to characterize the low surface tension fluidstrikethrough performance (in seconds) of webs intended to provide abarrier to low surface tension fluids, such as runny BM, for example.

Lister Strikethrough Tester: The instrumentation is like described inEDANA ERT 153.0-02 section 6 with the following exception: thestrike-through plate has a star-shaped orifice of 3 slots angled at 60degrees with the narrow slots having a 10.0 mm length and a 1.2 mm slotwidth. This equipment is available from Lenzing Instruments (Austria)and from W. Fritz Metzger Corp (USA). The unit needs to be set up suchthat it does not time out after 100 seconds.

Reference Absorbent Pad: Ahlstrom Grade 989 filter paper, in 10 cm×10 cmareas, is used. The average strikethrough time is 3.3+0.5 seconds for 5plies of filter paper using the

32 mN/m test fluid and without the web sample. The filter paper may bepurchased from Empirical Manufacturing Company, Inc. (EMC) 7616 ReinholdDrive Cincinnati, OH 45237.

Test Fluid: The 32 mN/m surface tension fluid is prepared with distilledwater and 0.42+/−0.001 g/liter Triton-X 100. All fluids are kept atambient conditions.

Electrode-Rinsing Liquid: 0.9% sodium chloride (CAS 7647-14-5) aqueoussolution (9 g NaCl per 1 L of distilled water) is used.

Test Procedure

-   -   All testing is performed in a room maintained at about 23°        C.±2° C. and about 50%±2% relative humidity. The Ahlstrom filter        paper and test articles are conditioned in this controlled        environment for 24 hours and 2 hours before testing.    -   Ensure that the surface tension is 32 mN/m+/−1 mN/m. Otherwise        remake the test fluid.    -   Prepare the 0.9% NaCl aqueous electrode rinsing liquid.    -   Ensure that the strikethrough target (3.3+/−0.5 seconds) for the        Reference Absorbent Pad is met by testing 5 plies with the 32        mN/m test fluid as follows:    -   Neatly stack 5 plies of the Reference Absorbent Pad onto the        base plate of the strikethrough tester.    -   Place the strikethrough plate over the 5 plies and ensure that        the center of the plate is over the center of the paper. Center        this assembly under the dispensing funnel.    -   Ensure that the upper assembly of the strikethrough tester is        lowered to the pre-set stop point.    -   Ensure that the electrodes are connected to the timer.    -   Turn the strikethrough tester “on” and zero the timer.    -   Using the 5 mL fixed volume pipette and tip, dispense 5 mL of        the 32 mN/m test fluid into the funnel.    -   Open the magnetic valve of the funnel (by depressing a button on        the unit, for example) to discharge the 5 mL of test fluid. The        initial flow of the fluid will complete the electrical circuit        and start the timer. The timer will stop when the fluid has        penetrated into the Reference Absorbent Pad and fallen below the        level of the electrodes in the strikethrough plate.    -   Record the time indicated on the electronic timer.    -   Remove the test assembly and discard the used Reference        Absorbent Pad. Rinse the electrodes with the 0.9% NaCl aqueous        solution to “prime” them for the next test. Dry the depression        above the electrodes and the back of the strikethrough plate, as        well as wipe off the dispenser exit orifice and the bottom plate        or table surface upon which the filter paper is laid.    -   Repeat this test procedure for a minimum of 3 replicates to        ensure the strikethrough target of the Reference Absorbent Pad        is met. If the target is not met, the Reference Absorbent Pad        may be out of spec and should not be used.    -   After the Reference Absorbent Pad performance has been verified,        nonwoven web samples may be tested.    -   Precondition the test articles at about 23° C.±2° C. and about        50%±2% relative humidity for two hours prior to testing. To        obtain a specimen, lay the article stretched flat on a bench,        body facing surface upward, and measure the total longitudinal        length of the article. Select a testing site on the inner and        outer cuffs, at the longitudinal midpoint of the article. Using        scissors cut a test specimen 70 mm long by the entire height of        the inner cuff centered at the longitudinal midpoint of the left        cuff. Next cut a second test specimen, this time from the outer        cuff, 70 mm long by the entire height of the outer cuff,        centered at the longitudinal midpoint of the left outer cuff. In        like fashion, prepare inner and outer cuff specimens from the        cuffs on the right side of the article.    -   Place the specimen centered over the port of the strike through        plate. The specimen should completely cover the port with the        surface corresponding to the body-facing surface of the cuff        directed toward the port. Gently extend the specimen taut in its        longitudinal direction so that the cuff lies flat against the        upper test plate. Adhesive tape is applied to secure the cuff to        the test plate in its extended state for testing. Tape should        not cover any portion of the measurement port.    -   Ensure that the upper assembly of the strikethrough tester is        lowered to the pre-set stop point.    -   Ensure that the electrodes are connected to the timer. Turn the        strikethrough tester “on” and zero the timer.    -   Run as described above.    -   Repeat this procedure for three articles. Average the six values        and report as the 32 mN/m low surface tension strikethrough time        to the nearest 0.1 seconds.

The dimensions and values disclosed herein are not to be understood asbeing strictly limited to the exact numerical values recited. Instead,unless otherwise specified, each such dimension is intended to mean boththe recited value and a functionally equivalent range surrounding thatvalue. For example, a dimension disclosed as “40 mm” is intended to mean“about 40 mm.”

Every document cited herein, including any cross referenced or relatedpatent or application and any patent application or patent to which thisapplication claims priority or benefit thereof, is hereby incorporatedherein by reference in its entirety unless expressly excluded orotherwise limited. The citation of any document is not an admission thatit is prior art with respect to any invention disclosed or claimedherein or that it alone, or in any combination with any other referenceor references, teaches, suggests or discloses any such invention.Further, to the extent that any meaning or definition of a term in thisdocument conflicts with any meaning or definition of the same term in adocument incorporated by reference, the meaning or definition assignedto that term in this document shall govern.

While particular embodiments of the present invention have beenillustrated and described, it would be obvious to those skilled in theart that various other changes and modifications can be made withoutdeparting from the spirit and scope of the invention. It is thereforeintended to cover in the appended claims all such changes andmodifications that are within the scope of this invention.

What is claimed is:
 1. A disposable absorbent article for wearing aboutthe lower torso of a wearer, the disposable absorbent articlecomprising: a first waist region having a first waist edge, a secondwaist region having a second waist edge, a crotch region disposedbetween the first and second waist regions; and a first longitudinaledge and a second longitudinal edge; a chassis comprising a topsheet, abacksheet, and an absorbent core disposed between the topsheet andbacksheet; a leg gasketing system attached to a portion of the chassis;and an elasticized waist gasketing element joined to the chassis in thesecond waist region, wherein the elasticized waist gasketing elementcomprises a waist gasketing element pocket comprising an outboard pocketcontraction force inboard of the second waist edge, and an inboardpocket contraction force disposed inboard of the outboard pocketcontraction force, wherein the inboard pocket contraction force isgreater than the outboard contraction force, wherein the elasticizedwaist gasketing element is attached by one or more longitudinal edgebonds to a portion of the leg gasketing system, and wherein a firstlongitudinal edge and a second longitudinal edge of the elasticizedwaist gasketing element are disposed laterally inboard of the first andsecond longitudinal edges of the chassis; and wherein the waistgasketing element comprises an array comprising at least two sets ofelastic members, wherein two sets differ in aggregate force.
 2. Thedisposable absorbent article of claim 1, further comprising a firstoutboard pocket elastic member comprising a first outboard pocketelastic decitex, DOP, and a second inboard pocket elastic membercomprising a second inboard pocket elastic decitex, DIP, and wherein thesecond inboard pocket elastic decitex, DIP, is greater than the firstoutboard pocket elastic decitex, DOP.
 3. The disposable absorbentarticle of claim 1, further comprising a first outboard pocket elasticmember comprising an outboard pocket strain, ε_(wop), and a secondinboard pocket member comprising a inboard pocket strain, ε_(wip), andwherein the inboard pocket strain, ε_(wip), is greater than the outboardpocket strain, ε_(wop).
 4. The disposable absorbent article of claim 1,wherein the waist gasketing element comprises a lateral outboard edgebond and two opposing outboard longitudinal edge bonds.
 5. Thedisposable absorbent article of claim 4, wherein the leg gasketingsystem joined to the waist gasketing element by the two opposingoutboard longitudinal edge bonds.
 6. The disposable absorbent article ofclaim 1, wherein the leg gasketing system comprises a leg gasketingpocket.
 7. The disposable absorbent article of claim 1, wherein thearray comprises a plurality of inboard elastic members and outboardelastic members and differential spacing such that inboard elasticmembers are more closely spaced than outboard elastic members.
 8. Thedisposable absorbent article of claim 1, wherein the waist gasketingelement comprises N-fiber.
 9. The disposable absorbent article of claim1, wherein the waist gasketing element comprises a Force Ratio of atleast 1:1.
 10. The disposable absorbent article of claim 1, wherein afirst outboard pocket elastic member and a second inboard pocket elasticmember extend across the elasticized waist gasketing element such thatthe first outboard pocket elastic member and the second inboard pocketelastic member extend across a longitudinal centerline of the absorbentarticle.
 11. The disposable article of claim 10, wherein each of thefirst outboard pocket elastic member and the second inboard pocketelastic member have a contracted starting point adjacent to at least oneof the first longitudinal edge and second longitudinal edge of theelasticized waist gasketing element and a contraction ending pointadjacent to at least one of the first longitudinal edge and secondlongitudinal edge of the elasticized waist gasketing element.
 12. Thedisposable article of claim 1, wherein the waist gasketing elementcomprises a web of material and further comprises an inboard lateraledge and an outboard lateral edge, wherein the inboard lateral edge isformed by a first fold in the web of material.
 13. The disposablearticle of claim 12, wherein the outboard lateral edge is formed by asecond fold in the web of material.
 14. A disposable absorbent articlefor wearing about the lower torso of a wearer, the disposable absorbentarticle comprising: a first waist region having a first waist edge, asecond waist region having a second waist edge, a crotch region disposedbetween the first and second waist regions; and a first longitudinaledge and a second longitudinal edge; a chassis comprising a topsheet, abacksheet, and an absorbent core disposed between the topsheet andbacksheet; a leg gasketing system attached to a portion of the chassis;and an elasticized waist gasketing element joined to the chassis in thesecond waist region, wherein the elasticized waist gasketing elementcomprises a waist gasketing element pocket comprising an outboard pocketcontraction force inboard of the second waist edge, and an inboardpocket contraction force disposed inboard of the outboard pocketcontraction force, wherein the inboard pocket contraction force isgreater than the outboard contraction force, wherein the elasticizedwaist gasketing element is attached by one or more longitudinal edgebonds to a portion of the leg gasketing system; wherein a firstlongitudinal edge and a second longitudinal edge of the elasticizedwaist gasketing element are disposed laterally inboard of the first andsecond longitudinal edges of the chassis; and a first outboard pocketelastic member comprising a first outboard pocket elastic decitex, DOP,and a second inboard pocket elastic member comprising a second inboardpocket elastic decitex, DIP, and wherein the second inboard pocketelastic decitex, DIP, is greater than the first outboard pocket elasticdecitex, DOP.
 15. The disposable article of claim 14, wherein the waistgasketing element comprises a web of material and further comprises aninboard lateral edge and an outboard lateral edge, wherein the inboardlateral edge is formed by a first fold in the web of material.
 16. Adisposable absorbent article for wearing about the lower torso of awearer, the disposable absorbent article comprising: a first waistregion having a first waist edge, a second waist region having a secondwaist edge, a crotch region disposed between the first and second waistregions; and a first longitudinal edge and a second longitudinal edge; achassis comprising a topsheet, a backsheet, and an absorbent coredisposed between the topsheet and backsheet; a leg gasketing systemattached to a portion of the chassis; and an elasticized waist gasketingelement joined to the chassis in the second waist region, wherein theelasticized waist gasketing element comprises a waist gasketing elementpocket comprising an outboard pocket contraction force inboard of thesecond waist edge, and an inboard pocket contraction force disposedinboard of the outboard pocket contraction force, wherein the inboardpocket contraction force is greater than the outboard contraction force,wherein the elasticized waist gasketing element is attached by one ormore longitudinal edge bonds to a portion of the leg gasketing system;wherein a first longitudinal edge and a second longitudinal edge of theelasticized waist gasketing element are disposed laterally inboard ofthe first and second longitudinal edges of the chassis; and a firstoutboard pocket elastic member comprising an outboard pocket strain,ε_(wop), and a second inboard pocket member comprising a inboard pocketstrain, ε_(wip), and wherein the inboard pocket strain, ε_(wip), isgreater than the outboard pocket strain, ε_(wop).
 17. A disposableabsorbent article for wearing about the lower torso of a wearer, thedisposable absorbent article comprising: a first waist region having afirst waist edge, a second waist region having a second waist edge, acrotch region disposed between the first and second waist regions; and afirst longitudinal edge and a second longitudinal edge; a chassiscomprising a topsheet, a backsheet, and an absorbent core disposedbetween the topsheet and backsheet; a leg gasketing system attached to aportion of the chassis; and an elasticized waist gasketing elementjoined to the chassis in the second waist region, wherein theelasticized waist gasketing element comprises a waist gasketing elementpocket comprising an outboard pocket contraction force inboard of thesecond waist edge, and an inboard pocket contraction force disposedinboard of the outboard pocket contraction force, wherein the inboardpocket contraction force is greater than the outboard contraction force,wherein the elasticized waist gasketing element is attached by one ormore longitudinal edge bonds to a portion of the leg gasketing system;wherein a first longitudinal edge and a second longitudinal edge of theelasticized waist gasketing element are disposed laterally inboard ofthe first and second longitudinal edges of the chassis; and wherein afirst outboard pocket elastic member and a second inboard pocket elasticmember extend across the elasticized waist gasketing element such thatthe first outboard pocket elastic member and the second inboard pocketelastic member extend across a longitudinal centerline of the absorbentarticle.
 18. The disposable article of claim 17, wherein the waistgasketing element comprises a web of material and further comprises aninboard lateral edge and an outboard lateral edge, wherein the inboardlateral edge is formed by a first fold in the web of material.
 19. Thedisposable article of claim 18, wherein the outboard lateral edge isformed by a second fold in the web of material.